Bicknell revives Surrey fortunes

Surrey allrounder Martin Bicknell, the man England's selectors keep snubbing, led a mini-revival at Headingley today as the champions fought to keep their slim title hopes alive.

On a good batting strip Surrey collapsed to 141-6 at lunch with Yorkshire fast bowler Steve Kirby, another of England's shortlisted candidates, taking 3-54.

Bicknell has an average of 40 this season and his disciplined innings of 32 was invaluable as the visitors recovered to 189 before he became Kirby's fourth victim of the day.

Spinners Ian Salisbury and Saqlain Mushtaq then took the total to 227 for eight.

HEADINGLEY: Surrey 227-8 (61.2 overs) v Yorks. CHELMSFORD: Leics 189-2 (62.4 overs) v Essex. COLWYN BAY: Glamorgan 240-3 (66.4 overs) v Lancs. CANTERBURY: Kent 258-3 (66.2 overs) v Somerset. CHELTENHAM: Gloucs 219-3 (65.2 overs) v Hants.