Cricket: Injuries hit Derbyshire hopes

DERBYSHIRE'S hopes of reaching the Benson and Hedges Cup final have been reduced by injuries. Already without Ian Bishop, their West Indian bowler who has a spinal stress fracture, and the Danish seam bowler Ole Mortensen, there are doubts about the all-rounders Dominic Cork and Frank Griffith for today's semi- final against Northamptonshire.

Cork, who has tendinitis in his knees, looks more likely to play, probably with the help of an injection. Griffith, who has a cracked finger, is doubtful and may be replaced by Simon Base. In contrast, Northamptonshire, the favourites for the game, welcome back Curtly Ambrose, who missed their Sunday League draw with Worcestershire, and add David Capel to make a full-strength squad.

Lancashire are expected to include the experienced opener Gehan Mendis in place of Steve Titchard as they bid to reach their third final in four years in the other game. The fast bowler Winston Benjamin returns for their opponents, Leicestershire, who will give a late fitness test to Adrian Pierson, the off-spinner.