DAVID Byas is resigned to missing the Benson and Hedges Cup semi final against Warwickshire at Old Trafford on Friday week with the broken knuckle he suffered in the C&G Trophy last Friday.

And the 38-year-old former Yorkshire veteran could be missing for six weeks or more, finally ending his dream of playing for Lancashire in a Lord's final.

The good news for Lancashire is that Neil Fairbrother was due to make his first appearance of the season in the Norwich Union National League game against Middlesex on Sunday until the match was deemed a complete washout.

That means barring any reaction when he does finally play, Fairbrother should be available to help fill the gap left by Byas in the semi-final.

The washout actually leaves Lancashire on top of the Second Division table in the National League with six points, although they are the only team to have "played" three games.

It was a double disappointment for Lancashire, who were aiming for their fourth one-day win in a week and had also made a big effort to attract an improved crowd to Old Trafford.

Warren Hegg's team return to Championship action with the crunch match against Surrey at Old Trafford at the end of the week.

The only positive outcome from the poor weather is that it is likely to leave the six First Division teams in Championship action this weekend - including Surrey, Yorkshire and second-placed Leicestershire - having to settle for draws today.