LANCASHIRE star Nick Speak is a target for Warwickshire.

The 29 year old batsman has the chance to leave Old Trafford, although there is a year of his contract left, and he can now consider offers from other counties.

Warwickshire have moved quickly and hope to open up negotiations soon. But a string of other clubs are thought to be interested and Speak is likely to take his time.

Ironically Lancashire's below strength attack showed yesterday just why Warwickshire want to shore up their batting.

Even Steve Titchard claimed a wicket, his first ever for the club, when he took a return catch off Trevor Penney.

A delighted Titchard said: "It was very encouraging - I work hard at my bowling in the nets and perhaps I will get more chances next season." Lancashire also had to use Jason Gallian but they kept Warwickshire in trouble for most of the day with the Edgbaston side finishing on 233 for seven when bad light stopped play.

But Ashley Giles prolonged the Warwicks resistance reaching 95 not out with his side on 370 for nine, Glen Chapple and Jason Gallian taking the two wickets.

Leicestershire appear to have one hand on the Britannic Assurance County Championship title following another destructive bowling performance.

James Whitaker's side skittled out Grace Road visitors Middlesex for just 190 in 56.4 overs to take maximum bowling points, with England pace ace Alan Mullally capturing four for 53. Only Mark Ramprakash provided any reasonable resistance against Leicestershire's title surge, hitting two sixes and 10 fours on his way to 71 off 127 deliveries.

The home side, looking comfortable on 36 for one in reply when bad light prevented any further play, had their cause aided by a complete washout at The Oval of Surrey's game against Worcestershire.

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