The rain in Leicester had relented by lunchtime, but the umpires decided that the outfield was too wet for any play, while a morning of rain also ruined the prospects of play at Edgbaston.
Essex, fifth in Division One, but only 14 points clear of relegation, reached 325-5 after 104 overs in what play was possible with the Bears, picking up two batting points as they edged closer to the draw that will secure another season of top-flight cricket.
