Derbys v Essex: Team news

Youngster back for Essex, skipper doubt for Derbyshire

Last updated: 29th August 2007

Katich Simon Derbyshire Apr 07

Related links

Teams

Also see

Essex will look to keep their promotion hopes alive as they travel to face Derbyshire in Division Two of the County Championship.

Essex have made one major change in their squad for the game at the County Ground in Derby, with youngster Tom Westley returning to the party.

The 18-year-old made his County Championship debut in July against Gloucestershire but has since been away on England Under-19 duty.

With Westley back in the fold, Varun Chopra has dropped out of the squad and will p lay for Essex second XI as he bids to regain some form.

Derbyshire are sweating over the fitness of captain Simon Katich, who is struggling to get over a shoulder injury in time for the match.

Derbyshire all-rounder Greg Smith will definitely play not part in the match as he struggles with an abdominal injury picked up against Glamorgan last week.

Smith needs to see a specialist to determine whether he will require surgery on the problem or can continue to play for the rest of the season.

Another batsman will be included in the Derbyshire squad in order to cover the absence of Smith and possibly Katich.