Northamptonshire 32 for 2 (Young 16*, Procter 2*, S. Cook 1-8, Allison 1-9) trial Essex 263 (Allison 69*, Westley 58, Browne 49, Taylor 4-59) by 231 runs

The tailender’s latest batting escapade means he now has the remarkable stat of making more 50s (three) than single-figure scores in his short first-class career to date.

Allison and Sam Cook then struck early blows with the new ball as Northamptonshire struggled to 32 for 2 in bowler-friendly conditions before bad light called a halt.

Overnight and morning rain delayed the start until 2:30pm but just six balls were bowled before another heavy shower drove the players off once more.

Allison on 46 at the time of the second interruption soon passed 50 courtesy of his seventh four and his career-best soon followed as a last-wicket stand with Cook raised 39 before the latter was castled by Jack White.

Cook didn’t take long to make a breakthrough ball in hand. His first delivery saw Emilio Gay edge just short of point, the ball running away for two runs. The left-hander’s reprieve was brief however as Cook’s next ball trapped him plumb in front.

New batter Ricardo Vasconcelos endured a torrid stay. Struck painful blows not once but twice by Cook, he was undone by the arrival in the attack of Allison who bowled him from with he tried to leave, but which ricochet into his stumps.

Will Young and Luke Procter prevented any further breakthrough before the murky light closed in.