Clarke pays the price

Rikki Clarke has been left out of Derbyshire's squad for the game against Northants

Derbyshire captain Rikki Clarke has been dropped for the clash with Northamptonshire in Division Two of the LV County Championship.

The all-rounder has struggled for form following his arrival from Surrey, averaging just 22 with the bat.

However, fellow batsman Dan Birch has been declared fit despite having contracted a stomach bug during his side’s recent draw with Leicestershire.

The left-hander batted for 23 overs during the drawn encounter despite losing a stone in two days and was due to be replaced by youngster Paul Borrington had he be deemed unfit.

Seamer Tom Lungley does, however, miss out as he is yet to recover fully from a knee injury.

Northamptonshire are expected to name the same side that drew away at Worcestershire.

Monty Panesar is on England duty, while Johann Louw, Stephen Peters and Andrew Crook are also expected to miss out having not played a part in the game at New Road.

Andrew Hall should keep his place in the team despite suffering recently with an abductor strain.