English counties face wicket-preparation strain after five heatwaves

Groundstaff across England are preparing pitches with almost no rainfall after five heatwaves this summer. The County Championship returns on Thursday for its final six-week block running until 27 September. Only 11 points separate Nottinghamshire at the top of Division One from Essex in sixth place.

Kent and Northamptonshire are fighting for the second promotion spot in Division Two. Both counties need points from every remaining fixture. The dry weather has forced curators to water and cover pitches more often than usual.

The schedule allows no extra rest days. Teams play three matches in the next 18 days before the final round begins.