STEVE Rhodes is hoping to pass a fitness test in time to play for promotion-chasing Worcestershire Royals in tomorrow's floodlit Norwich Union League Division Two clash against Derbyshire Scorpions at Derby.

The long-serving wicketkeeper has missed the County's last three matches because of a torn calf muscle.

He said: "I've been pleased with the progress. I'm just on the last lap now as it were.

"It's just getting the last bit in place because it's the type of injury that, as with Michael Vaughan in the winter and Graham Thorpe, you can rush back too early.

"Tomorrow is a target, but I'm taking games one at a time because I had been hoping I'd be fit for the current match with Nottinghamshire.

"But, as I say, I'm pleased with my progress. I'm running on it now and that's the most important thing.

"The only thing I haven't done is sprint and obviously I've got to do that to prove my fitness."

Rhodes is due to have a fitness test later today and, if necessary, another check tomorrow.

A similar prospect faces spinner Matthew Rawnsley who has also missed the County's last three matches because of a foot infection.

One injury scare that has gone by without causing a problem involved Vikram Solanki who was niggled by a groin strain.

"We were worried it could have been something a bit more serious but a scan has shown an all-clear," said vice-captain Rhodes.

Worcestershire's side, however, will not be finalised until after the current home Championship match against Nottinghamshire.

Skipper Graeme Hick's men go into tomorrow's clash knowing that victory will put them on top of the table.

They are currently in third spot, two points behind leaders Durham Dynamos, and will be anxious to bounce back from their defeat against Glamorgan in their last league outing.