Worcestershire without Lions trio

Worcestershire skipper Vikram Solanki is away with England Lions, leaving Gareth Batty in charge against leaders Durham

Bottom side Worcestershire are missing a trio of batsmen to England Lions call-ups for for their visit to Division One leaders Durham in the LV= County Championship.

Captain Vikram Solanki, opener Stephen Moore and wicketkeeper-batsman Steve Davies face Australia at New Road this week.

That leaves Gareth Batty in charge of an inexperienced line-up with Josh Knappett behind the stumps and Dave Wheeldon and Alexei Kervezee set to make only their second Championship appearances.

Defending champions Durham are without Paul Collingwood, with England, Steve Harmison and Graham Onions, both on Lions duty, meaning fellow seamer Mark Davies could make his season debut.

Meanwhile, Kyle Coetzer replaces Mark Stoneman, who has a thigh injury, as Durham go in search of their fourth consecutive Championship win.

All-rounder Liam Plunkett is also included in a 12-man squad and could go into the team alongside Davies.