Promotion and relegation issues intensify in new round of CricInfo Championship games

Middlesex host Warwickshire in a crucial promotion tussle in Division Two of the CricInfo Championship.

Third placed Middlesex's hopes have taken a knock of late, and they will be without leading bowler Phil Tufnell, who has been recalled to the England squad. Warwickshire lie just 1.25 points behind Middlesex in fifth place

"Our confidence has been knocked a bit by our two heavy defeats to Sussex and Gloucestershire," Middlesex coach Jason Pooley admitted. "But we're a young side, and I think if we can have a good first session and get into a strong position on the first day we can get back to winning."

Elsewhere Sussex take on Durham, boosted by the news that they have a fully fit squad and a comfortable cushion at the top of Division Two. Paul Collingwood and Nicky Peng are injury worries for the visitors.

Worcestershire entertain Hampshire at New Road in a vital game for the visitors' promotion prospects. Hampshire are without Chris Tremlett and Alan Mullally.

"I think the game will be evenly matched," Worcestershire coach Tom Moody reasoned. "Their bowling attack may be a bit light without Alan Mullally who has bowled really well for them all season."

Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire contest the other game in Division Two, at Trent Bridge. Notts are adrift of the pack, while Derbyshire will be anxious to try to avoid the bottom spot that they currently fill.

In Division One Lancashire host seemingly doomed Essex in a match the Old Trafford team need to win if they are to ease their relegation worries.