Durham, Derbyshire in a crunch clash

Norman Gifford the coach of the Durham team knows that the match against Derbyshire at Derby would be a tight one as both teams are trying to keep their place in Division one of the county championship. He said: ``They are just behind us. It is a big game for both of us and we need to win. Victory there would do us the world of good.''

Colin Wells, the Derbyshire cricket manager is worried over the fitness of the team players Steve Titchard and Steve Stubbings.

Another struggling team Kent will be facing Hampshire at Canterbury with Shane Warne expected by the director of cricket Tim Tremlett, to be back from Australia. "They (Kent) are in a relegation battle and will be fighting as hard as we will be to get ourselves out of that position", said Tremlett while John Wright, the Kent coach said ``There is a lot at stake for both sides. We anticipate a competitive game and we're pleased to be at home.''

Meanwhile, Lancashire have narrowed the difference over Surrey by winning their match at Leicestershire.