Steady progress for the Red Rose county

Lancashire 192 for 4 (63 overs). Laxman 75, Croft 37. 44 in front.

Laxman is batting solidly within himself in discomfort (and batting with a runner) following a back twinge. Croft is batting like a million dollars (though, actually, it's a bit difficult to picture a million dollars batting).

The Bears haven't bowled very well this morning. Carter's radar was awry, Woakes wasn't too threatening, Rankin started well but was then punished by Laxman and Clarke has just come on and started with a poor leg-side over. Botha is tidy but the pitch is not offering much turn. No Miller yet today.

If Lancashire get to 350 they are safe from relegation. I think they will get there. Clive disagrees.

Grey and chilly. Moderate light. Building noise. Trams.