HEAD coach Paul Grayson has apologised for Essex’s “shambolic” performance against Northamptonshire.

Essex lost on Friday afternoon by an innings and nine runs inside three days at Wantage Road.

Grayson said in a statement: “As head coach, I feel that I wish to publicly express my apologies to all members and supporters for the shambolic performance produced by the Essex players that resulted in an innings defeat at Northamptonshire last week.

“At one stage on day two with only two first innings wickets intact, our opponents were still trailing by 12 runs but by the time the final two wickets had been claimed, they had forged a lead of 216 runs.

“We then generally batted poorly to add to the obvious shortcomings in the bowling department all resulting in a defeat by a highly embarrassing margin.

“I feel that it is right that our members and supporters should be aware that the players have been told in no uncertain terms that their performance, as a team, was totally unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

“I can assure you that changes will be made for the next match that starts on Monday week against Hampshire at Chelmsford.

“I feel that it is important to stress to our members and supporters that I, and the coaching staff, will continue to do everything in our powers to bring success to this club but the players have, of course, a major part to play if that desire we hold is to be realised.

“The coaching staff have every confidence in the potential of the squad and we will continue to all work together to get our season back on track.”