SKIPPER John Crawley hit a superb double century against Northamptonshire in their CricInfo County Championship Division One clash at Old Trafford.

It was Crawley's fourth double century and his fifth in all.

Lancs coach Bobby Simpson said: "This one has an extra edge because we are desperately fighting to stay in the First Division, so it was important to get a few runs.

"My only disappointment is that something like this didn't happen earlier in the season, but it does feel pretty good."

Crawley's knock of 208 not out was the main factor in his side reaching 444 for three.