BOTH captains indicated their readiness to set up a final day run chase after just 8.5 overs were possible on the third day of the Bob Willis Trophy first class match between Leicestershire and Durham at the Fischer County Ground.

Durham added 23 runs to their overnight score of 227-6, but lost the wicket of Paul Coughlin, caught at point by Sam Evans off the bowling of Gavin Griffiths.

“There's definitely a possibility of setting something up, it's a short competition with wins vital, so it could make for exciting cricket on the last day – if we're luckier with the weather,” said Leicestershire skipper Colin Ackerman.

Opposite number Ned Eckersley agreed. “It's going to take some positive discussions to find a target we're both comfortable with - we'd probably want a few more than 250 - but both sides will want a positive outcome," the Durham captain said.

“We've all spent too much time not playing cricket this year, and every player and every member of the coaching staff on both sides will want an exciting last day. We don't want to come and bat for bonus points.”