Michael Pepper smashed a century for the second consecutive County Championship match, propelling Essex to a commanding position against Nottinghamshire on day two at Chelmsford.
Pepper's impressive 115 off 147 balls surpassed his previous best, made just last week against Worcestershire. His innings built on the foundation laid by captain Tom Westley, who earlier scored 122, helping Essex post a daunting total of 457 in their first innings.
After a 69-run partnership with Westley, Pepper joined forces with Simon Harmer, who contributed 51 in a seventh-wicket stand of 133, putting further pressure on Nottinghamshire, who are battling relegation. Nottinghamshire, however, managed to reduce Essex's lead to 420, reaching 37-1 in 10.5 overs before bad weather curtailed play, with opener Ben Slater unbeaten on 26.
The day began with Rob Lord claiming his third wicket for Nottinghamshire, dismissing Westley after just 19 deliveries with the new ball. But, it took over 30 more overs before the next wicket fell, as Essex continued to frustrate their opponents.
Pepper, demonstrating composure at the crease, reached his century from 135 balls, receiving a warm acknowledgment from his batting partner. However, Harmer soon fell after misjudging a reverse sweep off Freddie McCann, which bowled him for 51.
Essex’s lower order couldn't add much to the total, with Shane Snater and Sam Cook both falling to Farhan Ahmed, who ended with figures of 3-102. Pepper's fine innings came to an end when he was bowled by Liam Patterson-White, as Essex lost their final four wickets for just 27 runs in six overs.
In Nottinghamshire's reply, captain Haseeb Hameed fell early, cutting a delivery from Sam Cook to point, leaving his team trailing significantly by 420 runs as bad light and rain ended play early. Essex secured four points while Nottinghamshire managed two, leaving the visitors with much to do.