The outcome of today's top of the table clash between Tynedale and Ashington could have a big bearing on the destination of the championship,

The Hexham side returned to pole position with a last gasp victory when Ashington lost for only the second time last weekend.

Only 11 points separate the pair with seven games worth 140 points still remaining.

Tynedale have Tim Adcock back to bolster their batting line-up and he replaces Paul Pickworth, while Ashington need to make a couple of changes.

James Harmison and Paul Straker are both out replaced by Adam Craggs and Stuart Spear.

Leadgate have gradually crept into third position and they start firm favourites at bottom of the table Whickham who are doomed for an immediate return to division A2. They are still without a win and are 74 points from safety. Wickham have Brian Levey making his seasonal debut and Richard Boschen is also named but even so their task looks impossible against in-form Leadgate who have lost just twice in 15 games.

Shotley Bridge are in the other relegation position and could again find it difficult against Lanchester at The Spa.

Lintz are also too near the bottom for comfort and will surely miss David Nevin and Michael Christie at Benwell and Walbottle. Richard Guy and Richard Moody deputise.

Annfield Plain line up John Newstead alongside his brother David since David Maughan is ruled out of the home fixture with Swalwell who include Brian Rixon for the injured Andrew Worthy.

Sacriston, aiming to end at least third from top, are able to field an unchanged XI for their game at Newcastle City who again take the field without wicket keeper Vaas Mukhtah.

In division A2, leaders Ponteland are at fifth top Seaton Burn, while Burnopfield, hoping to clinch the second promotion place, take on Morpeth.