17:28

Contrasting innings from the captain, Tom Abell, and the irrepressible Roelof van der Merwe – plus a weather forecast that hints at a slight improvement – means Somerset players and fans have not yet given up all hope of a historic County Championship -triumph.

Thanks to Abell and Van der Merwe Somerset mustered 203 runs on another truncated day after an entertaining last-wicket partnership of 59. In reply Essex were 25 without loss when the rain returned.

There are a few obstacles left for the home side. In addition to the spoilsport weather is the presence of England’s greatest run-scorer in Test cricket (Alastair Cook is 5 not out) plus several other experienced batsmen as well as the leading wicket-taker in the country in Simon Harmer, who now possesses 83 Championship victims this summer.

Harmer’s wickets, though, have come at a cost in this match. He -finished with five for 105, having been blunted by Abell and assaulted by Van der Merwe. Sam Cook was more economical, finishing with four for 26 from 19 impeccable overs. And despite Somerset’s total in excess of 200 there is the possibility of an adverse pitch report from the cricket liaison officer due to excessive turn which could lead to a points reduction.

So there was plenty to ponder for Somerset’s captain yet Abell batted with conventional poise, watchful and correct – and, in contrast to some of his colleagues, unflustered against the turning ball while gleaning 45. He is only 25 yet is in his third year as captain of the club. After a nightmarish first summer in charge – because he could not score any runs – he is now the unassailable man in charge in this format. He carries the burden lightly now. He should surely be involved with the Lions somewhere this winter.

Whatever the situation Van der Merwe is the most energetic of -cricketers, who can make an impact in all three disciplines. Yesterday it was his batting that tilted the game. He is an intimidating No 10, who is very dangerous when the force is with him. He struck sixes off Harmer with brio, one of which was an outrageous reverse hit towards the Andy Caddick Pavilion. Last wicket specialist, Jack Leach, offered wily support – he has been in tougher situations than this in the summer of 2019.

Now the focus switches to the bowling of Leach and Van der Merwe, as well as Dom Bess, who will be busy with the ball if the clouds permit.