ESSEX have dropped South African bowler Lonwabo Tsotsobe from the squad to face Surrey on Wednesday.

But club chiefs have stressed the decision not to name him in the travelling party for the trip to Whitgift School in Croydon is purely down to form.

“He’s just not bowling well enough,” said Essex head coach Paul Grayson.

Ravi Bopara is also out as he is on England duty, while Graham Napier has been recalled to the squad following his back injury.

Squad to face Surrey: Alastair Cook, Jaik Mickleburgh, Mark Pettini, Matt Walker, Adam Wheater, James Foster (Captain/wicket-keeper), Graham Napier, Tim Phillips, David Masters, Chris Wright, Maurice Chambers, Michael Comber.