Chris Dawkes: Who says county cricket isn't exciting?

Exciting, enthralling, captivating. Words not typically associated with county cricket. But today suitably apt considering what lies ahead over the next eight hours at Lord's.

After Somerset's convincing victory over Notts yesterday they are now in the box seat to claim their first ever County Championship title. And they'll do so if Yorkshire and Middlesex draw their game at the spiritual home of cricket.

Thats where it gets interesting. Both Yorkshire and Middlesex need to win if either side is to lift the trophy. For Yorkshire it'll be a third successive championship, for Middlesex a first since 1993.

At the start of the fourth and final day Middlesex are 39 runs behind in their second innings with eight wickets remaining. They have no option but to get try and get some quick runs on the board, which should leave them vulnerable to Yorkshire's fearsome attack. Jack Brooks has already taken seven wickets in the match and could be a key man for the White Rose.

The opening session will be crucial. If Yorkshire take some early wickets they'll fancy their chances of victory. There's every chance they'll have to bat again and they'll want to limit Middlesex's lead to a manageable total.

If Middlesex set about the Yorkshire bowlers with gusto it could force a situation where both captains contrive a result. Middlesex could say set Yorkshire a total of 200 from 25 overs. Remember both sides have to win so a draw is no good.

It's got all the makings of a classic final day. Who says county cricket isn't exciting?