Dumfries ready to be attacked from West

Published on 23/06/2012 03:38

It’s unequivocally Match of the Day, weather permitting. Frontrunners West of Scotland go head to head with deposed leaders Dumfries at Hamilton Crescent in a battle likely to hinge on how well the second-placed visitors cope with a West seam attack, which by common consent is the most potent in the league.

“We need to be as strong batting-wise as we can be,” stressed Nunholm skipper Stuart Corbett-Byers. “We’re focusing on not losing wickets early on, and forming more substantial partnerships thereafter.” Fit-again opening bowler Pat Druce returns, while veteran all-rounder Davie Davidson retains his slot. Batsman Cammy Gibb comes in for West in place of unavailable Greg Watson.

Third-placed Clydesdale head down river to face struggling Greenock at Glenpark. Safyaan Sharif may return for Dale in place of Mo Awais but there is still no Greig Williamson, and Kas Farid is also unavailable, replaced behind the stumps by Andrew Scobie. “A mid-term assessment is difficult,” admitted Titwood coach Colin Mitchell. “The weather has made for such a staccato season. Form and momentum are non-existent.”

Second-bottom Greenock are at full strength with the return of keeper/bat Alex Baum from Scottish Universities duty.

Ayr welcome bottom club Drumpellier to New Cambusdoon and look to their in-form batters, pro Craig Thyssen and keeper Neil Smith, and emerging seamer Scott McElnea, who underlined his burgeoning promise with a fine three for 23 for the Western Warriors against the Eastern Knights on Sunday. Ayr, though, will have to do without skipper Mark Renny, Neil Logan and Robbie Henderson, all unavailable, and replaced by Calum McLaughlin, Dave Pinder and Ross Mitchell respectively, while Andi McElnea assumes the captaincy.

Drumps have been affected by the weather more than anyone, having completed just one Scottish Cup tie and two league games to date. Fifteen-year-old Nic Pine comes in for his 1st XI debut in place of Stevie Allison.

The match scheduled between Stirling County and Uddingston has been postponed following the sudden, unexpected death of Stirling fourth-team captain Stuart McGann.