James Franklin has had succes in the past playing in England

New Eagle confident Paul Grayson’s side can get far in the competition

James Franklin says the strength of the Essex side was the biggest factor in him joining the club for the T20 competition.

Essex begin their campaign this evening against a Surrey side who are one of the favourites to win the competition.

Middlesex, Hampshire and Sussex are also traditionally strong one day teams, meaning it will be a tough task for the Eagles to escape the group.

Franklin helped the Mumbai Indians reach the last four of the IPL and the 31-year-old believes he is joining a side which can compete with the very best in England.

“The opportunity came up straight away and looking at the team, it is strong on paper and that is why I joined,” he told London24.

“The group itself is very strong, but all sides have their own strengths and weaknesses. It is vital we make the most of our home matches and make a good start.

“In a group like this you don’t want to be playing catch up. It’s a cliche, but you have to take things game by game. If you start well that can give you the momentum to take you through.”

Essex could certainly use a lift after a poor start to their 40-over and four-day campaigns.

Paul Grayson’s side are third bottom in Division Two of the Championship, while they are one of the bottom of their CB40 group.

Franklin however insists that morale is fine in the camp and believes a good 20-over campaign can kick-start their season.

“I have only been here a week but everyone seems fine,” he said. “Sometimes a change of format and outlook can be good and will give us a chance to re-focus.

“If we do well in the t20’s hopefully that will translate to the longer form of the game and we can finish the season strongly.”