MIKE Watkinson has voiced his support for Warren Hegg following the Lancashire captain's confrontation with supporters on Saturday after Lancashire's County Championship defeat against Surrey.

The result, coupled with Middlesex's surprise victory over Sussex, has left Watkinson's side needing to win their final two County Championship games of the season to stand a chance of avoiding relegation to Division Two.

Lancashire's slump has left supporters, players and management frustrated, but coach Watkinson has defended his captain. He said: "Warren is a very passionate player who puts everything into this club. His reaction was borne out if the frustration and hurt he feels."

Warwickshire have won this season's County Championship following Sussex's defeat. Victory for Middlesex has pulled them clear of the drop zone, and has left Lancashire in a three-way fight with Worcestershire and Gloucestershire - their final two opponents - to avoid going down with Northamptonshire.