DIRECTOR of Cricket Tom Moody is warning his Worcestershire players that they still face a tough task to win the Norwich Union League Division One despite opening up an eight-point lead at the top of the table.

The County turned up the title-chasing heat yesterday with a scorching six-wicket victory over Yorkshire Phoenix at sun-soaked New Road.

Their red-hot match-winners were Ben Smith and Gareth Batty who produced an undefeated 109 stand.

Moody said: "It was a big result for us. Yorkshire are a dangerous side and to have beaten them at home and away is a big plus for us in this competition.

"We are getting ourselves in a nice position but myself and the players are very aware we have got a lot of tough matches ahead of us. We can't take anything for granted.

"We have got to make sure every game we play is like a cup final for us to continue in front. Glamorgan is going to be a big game for us this Sunday."

Glamorgan Dragons, who beat second-placed Warwickshire Bears by 62 runs Edgbaston yesterday, are in third spot eight points behind Worcestershire with two games in hand.

Moody, meanwhile, has heaped praise on Andy Bichel who marked his farewell from New Road yesterday with an crucial three-wicket haul.

Bichel is now heading back to Australia for international duties. He will not be returning this season and his international schedule next year makes it highly unlikely he will resume his County career.

Moody said: "He has been a great player to work with and I'm sure anyone who has come across Andy will say the same. It has been easy to see what Andy has brought into the New Road dressing room in terms of professionalism and this has rubbed off on the rest of the players in terms of how they approach the game.

"He has been a superb role model on and off the pitch. Having a squad with a number of young international hopefuls in it, it has been great to see them learn from Andy's many years of experience and total dedication.

"His enthusiasm for the game and life in general is crucial to maintaining a consistent level of high performance throughout the long county season."

Bichel's replacement is Australian all-rounder Shane Lee who will make his debut on Sunday against Glamorgan at New Road.