LANCASHIRE have clinched their place in cricket's new first division next season. Their innings and 14 runs demolition of Durham - their sixth win out of seven games - pushed them temporarily into third spot.

And, while the results of matches ending today could affect the table, the Old Trafford side are certain of finishing in the top nine, who will go into the top flight.

Nick Speak, the only Durham batsman to put up any genuine resistance, said: "Lancashire will be one of the teams to beat next year. They are a top side and would have been fighting for the title this time if not for losing players during the World Cup.

"And in Chris Schofield they have made a real discovery. He can go all the way to the top."

Schofield dismissed three more batsmen to record an eight wickets match haul for the third time in his career - and he has only played eight games. And, although ex Lancashire star Speak hit 66, Durham were bundled out for 197.

Paceman Peter Martin also made an impact with some aggressive bowling, and he was within a hair's breadth of a hat trick when an inside edge from tail ender John Wood whistled inches past his leg stump.

Lancashire take on Hampshire Hawks in a vital Old Traffordf day-nighter on Monday (4.10pm). Victory over the struggling southerners would be a major step towards retaining the title and Lightning will be unchanged with Ian Austin and Mike Watkinson back in action after missing the championship game.

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