Derbyshire v Leicestershire day 3

Leicestershire 122

Derbyshire 350-7 declared

Derbyshire lead by 228 runs

Only limited play was possible on day 3 of the game at the Incora County Ground, sufficient for Derbyshire to advance their first innings to 350-7, thus achieving a third batting bonus point, before declaring.

Then came the rain.

In the limited play that was possible, Zak Chappell again showed that he can hit the ball, even if his final stroke was far from conventional, a top edged six over fine leg.

So it comes down to whether the ground staff can facilitate a prompt start tomorrow, to any potential showers avoiding the ground and to the bowlers taking ten wickets on the final day.

It is possible. The lead of 228 gives them something to work with and after being under covers all day today, the wicket may offer useful movement tomorrow.

The visitors just need to defend, but know that once their total gets past 228, the odds on a Derbyshire win reduce dramatically.

Much will depend on a prompt start. A full day offers hope, any reduction in overs reduces that substantially.

A win would kick start our season, but the level of performance here has been far in advance of anything seen before. Either way, this has been a most encouraging display.