STEVE Rhodes and Andy Bichel both hit centuries on the opening day of Worcestershire's two-day friendly against Essex at Chelmsford.
Wicketkeeper Rhodes cracked 144 and Australian Test star Bichel 115 as the County piled up an impressive 521 all out in 93.5 overs after being put in.
There were also half-centuries for Vikram Solanki (85) and Graeme Hick (51). By the close last night Essex were 24-0 in reply off four overs.
Worcestershire, meanwhile, are to help fill the gap left by Wroxeter's resignation from the First Division of the Banks's Birmingham Premier League.
Wroxeter's decision to fold came too late to promote another club so the First Division will have only 11 clubs.
The County have agreed to field their Academy team to fulfil Wroxeter's away fixtures, with the exception of Stratford who have opted not to play the County.
The Worcestershire Academy matches will not carry league points.
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