Lancashire level at top of table

Lancashire joined Sussex level on points at the top of Division One after gaining useful bonus points on the final day against Middlesex at Old Trafford. Rain had put paid to any chance of result and Middlesex batted on until reaching 350, while Gary Keedy ensured his team picked up a full hand of bowling points. Mal Loye led the Lancashire reply with his sixth century of the season and was well supported by Stuart Law, Nathan Astle and the tail. A flurry of boundaries from Dominic Cork pushed Lancashire over 350, while Chris Peploe and Johann Louw took three wickets each.

Gloucestershire secured a draw against Derbyshire at Derby despite a scare against the new ball. After Derbyshire had extended their innings to 400, Gloucestershire slipped to 7 for 2 as Steffan Jones took two wickets. However, Hamish Marshall made an aggressive 70 then Kadeer Ali stroked a composed, unbeaten 76 to ensure safety. Chris Taylor also hit a half century as Derbyshire employed a variety of bowling options late in the day.