The revised first-class season came to an end as Essex lifted the inaugural Bob Willis Trophy after edging a drawn final against Somerset on first-innings runs.

Here, the PA news agency looks at the key takeaways.

Chelmsford is still the home of champions

Essex proved they are one of the most dominant red-ball sides of recent times by claiming their third title in four seasons. Championship wins in 2017 and 2019 proved they could cut it over an extended periods – 14 games in different conditions against different opponents – and this showed they could hold their nerve in a winner-takes-all finale too.

We can get excited about Tom Lammonby

Tom Lammonby celebrates his century at Lord's.
Tom Lammonby celebrates his century at Lord’s (Steven Paston/PA)

The ‘showpiece’ final is an unproven entity

As an idea, pitting the two best sides from a league structure into a one-off decider has plenty going for it. It works well in Australia’s Sheffield Shield and, closer to home, in rugby league. This was not a perfect trial for English cricket – the scheduling meant it was bitterly cold throughout and important time was lost to rain, and the sight of vacant stands at a ground under reconstruction was jarring. If it is to become a fixture of the game, friendlier placement in the calendar and the return of fans are a must.

Craig Overton has proved himself again

Cook is still class apart

Sir Alastair Cook played a key role in Essex winning the Bob Willis Trophy Final at Lord’s
Sir Alastair Cook played a key role in Essex winning the Bob Willis Trophy Final at Lord’s (Steven Paston/PA)

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