Cork's double century gives Derbyshire glimmer of hope

Derbyshire have given themselves a glimmer of hope in the fight to stay in Division One after a magnificent double century from Dominic Cork put them on course for victory over Durham.

Set an improbable 500 for victory, Durham were 257-6 at the close with all their recognised batsmen gone and look destined to lose the game on the final day unless it rains.

Their chances of reaching that distant target were dealt a blow at the start when the first ball from Dominic Cork pinned Jonathan Lewis lbw but Simon Katich and Paul Collingwood fought back with a stand of 109 for the third wicket.

Collingwood was badly missed behind the wicket on 19 but Katich looked in command on such a flat pitch but both got themselves out to loose strokes.

An attempt by Collingwood to hit spinner Lian Wharton over the top ended in the hands of mid on and Katich slashed a wide ball to gully after 218 minutes at the crease.

His exit all but ended Durham's slender chances and Derbyshire moved closer to victory when James Daley was lbw to a ball from Kevin Dean that nipped back.

When skipper Nick Speak was bowled hitting across the line, Durham were firmly in retreat but Derbyshire must still rely on Kent losing if they are to have any hope of avoiding the drop.