GRAEME Hick struck 71 runs but Worcestershire were beaten by Essex in an entertaining start to the pre-season campaign at Chelmsford yesterday.

Hick was well backed up by youngsters Stephen Moore (67) and Daryl Mitchell (44) in the County's total of 251-4 off 50 overs.

Essex's Ronnie Irani was in terrific form in reply though, blasting a final six in his 142 not out to claim a three-wicket win with an over to spare.

Roger Sillence picked up a wicket for the County, while Matt Mason and Faisal Shahid claimed two each.

Director of cricket Steve Rhodes said: "It was nice for the lads to get a bit of playing time out in the middle.

"We have another 50-over game with Essex today which gives the players who didn't play yesterday an opportunity to get a bit of cricket ahead of the start of the season."