CHRIS Silverwood admits he has selection headaches ahead of Essex’s curtain raiser against Lancashire in County Championship Division One.

The head coach has strengthened his team over the off-season, with talented bowlers Simon Harmer and Neil Wagner the stand-out additions.

And Silverwood is looking forward to getting underway.

“This time a year ago we were dreaming of promotion and this year the dreams are a bit bigger,” he said. “We know it will be hard but there is a lot of excitement in and around the whole club.

“I think we are in great shape. We have strengthened well and certainly on the batting front. Simon is a Test off spinner and Neil brings great quality as well.

“I have an idea but I have some selection headaches. We will need the whole squad to compete in this league.”

Silverwood added striking a balance between the young talents and senior players was also key.

“It is difficult and enjoyable,” he said. “The great thing is the youngsters will get their opportunities.

“You saw that with Dan Lawrence last year and he has gone from strength to strength and is coming off a great winter.”