Middlesex have lost their appeal against the two-point penalty imposed on them by the ECB following their abandoned game against Surrey. It means their relegation stands and the 2016 County Champions will start the 2018 season in Division Two. Middlesex were relegated by a point after losing their final match of the season against Somerset. Initially Middlesex felt there was “no scope” for an appeal against their subsequent two-point deduction but later changed their minds and lodged one with the ECB. “The rules relating to over rates are clear and understood by all teams, coaches, players, and captains.

Source: The Guardian October 17, 2017 14:26 UTC