DURHAM will have to find a way to combat Keith Barker, who was left out of Saturday’s Royal London Cup final, when they finish their season at Edgbaston, starting today.

Warwickshire tend not to use the left-arm bowler in one-day cricket, but he has a stranglehold over Durham in championship clashes, as shown by his match figures of eight for 66 in his side’s victory by an innings and 188 runs at Chester-le-Street in July.

Two years ago at Edgbaston Barker’s match figures were ten for 70 as Warwickshire won by nine wickets and Durham were also thrashed there early last season.

So while the hosts will be seeking some kind of revenge for Saturday’s cup final defeat at Lord’s, Durham need to avenge their recent four-day drubbings by the team who lie second.

The gap between the sides is 18 points, so it is mathematically possible for Durham to climb above Warwickshire.

Third-placed Nottinghamshire are ten ahead of Durham but have completed their programme, while Sussex are three in front and can expect a full haul at Northampton.

Gareth Breese may not, after all, have played his final game for Durham as both he and Ryan Pringle are in the squad in case two spinners are needed.

Ben Stokes is not available as both he and Chris Woakes are required to rest under the terms of their central contracts.

With Peter Chase on Ireland duty, Durham will consider a recall for Mark Wood, whose last senior outing was in the home match against Warwickshire.

He had two five-wicket hauls in six championship appearances, but his season has been disrupted by side and ankle injuries.

Durham are also contemplating handing a debut to Graham Clark, a 21-yearold Cumbrian who is the brother of Lancashire’s Jordan Clark.

A right-handed batsman, he has been in the academy since 2009 and was placed on a development contract this season.