County Championship Division Two roundup: Promotion race stalled by damp weather

The Cricketer wraps up the best of the action during day two of the 15th round of LV= Insurance County Championship matches in 2023

Derby (day two of four): Derbyshire, Sussex

Sussex's fading promotion hopes were dealt a further blow when no play was possible for the second day running in the LV= Insurance County Championship match against Derbyshire at Derby.

Heavy rain and strong winds throughout the morning left pools of surface water on the outfield and the umpires made the decision to abandon play for the day after an inspection shortly before noon

It is the first time in the history of County Championship matches between Derbyshire and Sussex at Derby that the opening two days have been completely washed out.

Sussex came into the match knowing their chances of overtaking Worcestershire for the second promotion spot were slim after they were docked 12 points on Monday for a fourth fixed penalty this season.

Those hopes now look to have gone completely although there is at least better news with the weather set to improve which means the game should begin at some stage on Thursday depending on how quickly the Incora County Ground dries out.

Rain prevented play at Derby for a second day [George Wood/Getty Images]

Worcester (day two of four): Worcestershire 104-1, Durham

Worcestershire and Durham endured frustration as rain washed out the second day of their County Championship match at Worcester.

Both sides have plenty to play for with the already-promoted visitors needing five points to clinch the Division Two title while Worcestershire chase a win which would take them to the brink of promotion.

But relentless rain from a sky as grey as a welder's flannel meant there was no chance of play on the second day. The home side will resume on the third morning on 104 for 1 and only some brilliant cricket from either side or cooperation between the two about setting up a contest can save the game from stalemate.

Leicestershire's promotion hopes have been dealt a blow [Steve Bardens/Getty Images]

Leicester (day two of four): Yorkshire 155-9, Leicestershire

Leicestershire's hopes of keeping their promotion chances alive going into the final round of the 2023 County Championship were dealt a blow when day two of their must-win Division Two clash with Yorkshire was abandoned without a ball bowled.

Recurrent showers throughout the morning made it impossible for ground staff at Grace Road to remove the covers from the square and the heavy rain forecast for the afternoon duly arrived, forcing umpires Neil Bainton and Neil Pratt to call off play for the day at around 2.15pm.

Happily, the forecast for day three is much better and having reduced Yorkshire to 155 for 9 to secure three bowling bonus points in the three hours' play possible on Tuesday, Leicestershire will feel there is time to force a positive outcome.