Hampshire and Lancashire keep their hopes alive

North

Graeme Hick on his way to 55 off 30 balls ... but it wasn't enough © Getty Images

Lancashire lifted themselves into contention in a tight group with a 48-run win over Derbyshire at Old Trafford. Lancashire made 173 for 5, and although Derbyshire started well, reaching 62 for 1, Simon Marshall - who made 39 and took four wickets - and Gary Keedy grabbed four wickets in five overs and the challenge fizzled out.

Yorkshire completed their second win over Durham at a gloomy and misty Chester-le-Street with a comfortable 51-run victory. Yorkshire's 149 for 6 appeared a little light, but a slow start by Durham created its own pressure and they were bowled out for 98.

Northamptonshire had Sourav Ganguly (73 off 51 balls) and Robert White (66 in 39) to thank for guiding them to 190 for 3 at the County Ground. For a time, Worcestershire appeared to be in with a chance as Graeme Hick (55 off 30) and Lou Vincent (40 off 29) got them off to a rollicking start, but both fell to Monty Panesar and the visitors finished 11 runs short.

At a sultry Rose Bowl, Hampshire gained revenge for last Friday's defeat at Chelmsford with a 36-run win over division leaders Essex. It was a must-win game for the hosts, and after they scrambled to 151 for 4, they appeared in trouble. Darren Gough cracked 34 off 19 balls at No.3 as Essex reached 57 for 1, but his dismissal triggered a collapse and they were bowled out for 115. Greg Lamb was Hampshire's star with 37 not out and 3 for 23 - all three wickets from stumpings off balls called as leg-side wides!