One win could save us, says Watkinson

9:50am Wednesday 17th September 2008

Lancashire cricket manager Mike Watkinson says one win out of the final two games could seal County Championship survival for either the Red Rose county or Yorkshire.

Lancashire and Yorkshire are both level on 135 points in LV Division One with a couple of games left to save themselves from the embarrassment of relegation.

The Red Rose face Kent at Liverpool today, while Yorkshire play title-chasing Somerset at Scarborough.

There are a maximum of 22 points available for the win, and Watkinson said: “Whoever wins a game out of the last two puts themselves in a decent position to be playing First Division cricket next season.

“Hampshire have shown exactly what happens if you win a match. They have gone from the relegation zone to being top of the table.”

Champions Sussex are also in the mix for the drop. But they have a six point cushion, and travel to play Durham at Chester-le-Street.

This week has the potential to be decisive in the race, as there could be a result wicket at Liverpool.

Sunday’s Pro40 League game against Somerset, in which the visitors just managed to chase down 157 to seal Lancashire’s relegation, was played on a club wicket.

Lancashire produce the Championship wicket but if it is anything like that track then a draw would be unlikely.

Watkinson said: “The last two or three times I have been here for white ball cricket, when we have not played on Lancashire laid wickets, the ball has flirted around all over the place.

“We are hoping that we will get a surface that if you win the toss or lose the toss then you are still in the game.”

Despite failing to avoid 40-over relegation, Lancashire failed gloriously. They gave Somerset a major fright in their pursuit of 157.

“I have told the lads in the dressing room that if they show the same spirit over the next couple of weeks, then they deserve the rewards they would get for being successful in those games,” said Watkinson.

Former England all-rounder Dominic Cork has played his last game for Lancashire after being left out of a 12-man squad for today’s fixture.

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