SOMERSET must correct their inconsistent one-day form if they are to win promotion to the Pro40 Division One, according to director of cricket Brian Rose.

The Cidermen face a make-or-break period in the 40-over competition with three matches in five days.

Today (Thursday), they entertain Friend's Provident Trophy winners Durham (1.45pm), and travel to Canterbury to face Kent on Monday. They return to Taunton for the floodlit clash with Leicestershire Foxes on Tuesday.

Somerset have taken three points from as many games and, with only five matches left, need to put together a run of victories to stand any chance of claiming one of the two automatic promotion spots.

Rose said: "These three Pro40 games are very important to us because we have underachieved in one-day cricket this season. We have been inconsistent which seems to have haunted us all season, so if we can put that right and win the next three then we are right back in the hunt for promotion.

"Three victories will also put us in good heart going into our next county championship game which is against Glamorgan at Taunton next Thursday."

The players are also well aware of the situation. Ian Blackwell, who returns to the side after a back injury, said: "We have three important Pro40 games on the bounce.

"We haven't had the best of starts in this competition but if we win them all we will be right back in contention."

Young middle order batsman James Hildreth said: "Durham have just won at Lord's so they will be a strong team. But if we want to progress in this competition we need to start winning, beginning with this game.

"We are a very strong side and we know that we can beat any team on our day."

SOMERSET, who lead Division Two, resume their LV Championship programme next Thursday when they take on Essex at the County Ground.

SOMERSET hold their end of season dinner at the County Ground on Saturday, September 22. It will be attended by the players and will include a review of the season, a two-course buffet and a disco. Tickets, priced £30 each, are available from the office by calling 0845 337 1875 or online.