In the Rothesay County Championship match, Essex posted a total of 325 for 6 against Surrey, thanks to impressive performances by Paul Walter and Dean Elgar. Walter scored 101 runs off 184 balls, while Elgar added 92 runs, forming a formidable opening partnership of 183 runs that initially put Surrey's bowlers under pressure. Despite a strong start, Surrey managed to claw back into the match by taking six wickets in the latter part of the day, including four wickets in just 17 overs. Notably, Walter's century was his sixth in the championship, showcasing his growth as a consistent top-order player. Noah Thain also contributed with an unbeaten 33 runs, guiding Essex to a respectable position at stumps.