Simon Harmer put in an all-round performance to ensure an unbeaten title-winning campaign for Essex in Division One of the County Championship.
Having already secured their first trophy in 25 years, two weeks prior to the clash against Yorkshire at Chelmsford on Wednesday, Essex finished off their campaign in style.
Harmer, a Kolpak player, was at the forefront of Essex’s flawless season as he ended second on the wicket-taking charts with 72 sticks at an average of 19.19, topped only by his teammate Jamie Porter (75 wickets).
The 28-year-old racked up two half-centuries and match figures of 5-43 over two innings as Essex completed a 376-run victory.
The first innings saw Harmer carve out a much-needed 64 as his side were bowled out for a measly 227, top-scoring for his side, who could only hang on for 71.2 overs.
He backed up his batting heroism by taking 3-36, where with help from Porter (3-29) and Neil Wagner (3-21), they saw Yorkshire skittled for 111.
Harmer’s 58 not out in Essex’s second innings helped the hosts reach 334-7d to set up what was their 10th win from 14 matches, which included four draws.
