Essex seamer Jamie Porter happy to help push for victory

Porter took 6-34 to help dismiss the visitors for 179 in reply to Essex’s first innings 304.

And the home side closed on 104-1 second time around, with Sir Alastair Cook unbeaten on 44, to lead by 229 heading into day three after title rivals Surrey wrapped up an innings victory over Warwickshire.

“It was obviously nice to get amongst the wickets and help us towards our title push and to be able to contribute to that,” said Porter.

“There appeared to be something in the pitch when you were bowling with the new ball and then once we did the early damage, we put the pressure on them and it does come a little bit easier as the day goes on.

“I started the season with a six-fer against Middlesex and got another today. The wickets here at Chelmsford are not always the best to bowl seam on, so to get one at home was nice.

“That takes me to 53 Championship wickets overall for the season and to get the consistency I have is satisfying. 

“Hopefully, we can go on and win this game and regardless of what Surrey do, all we can do is try and keep the pressure on them by winning each of our last three matches. 

“We are the ones chasing, there’s no pressure on us, they need to keep winning the same as us. We are in a good position here, we’ve got another home game and we are flying at home.”

Porter also revealed his disappointment at how the past two campaigns have gone for him and how he now feels as good as ever.

“The last two years have been disappointing personally. Last year, I struggled with my body and I paid the price for that,” he added.

“But this year I’ve got it right and everything seems to be clicking. I feel this year is the best all-round version I’ve felt with myself in my career.

“This is probably the most satisfying season for me so far because of all the work I put in last winter. Not many people would have seen that and every game this year has been mentally exhausting due to the preparation I put in. 

“To get the rewards is nice. I think one thing that has got me through the whole of my career is my competitiveness. Whether I’m bowling well or not, my attitude is the same, I give it everything I’ve got.”