Leaders will not ease off

Kimblesworth are currently 58 points clear at the top of the table, and need just three wins from the last six matches to become champions for the second time.

Secretary Malcolm Bartle said: "We're not getting too carried away, because there are still some tough games to play. But we believe that if we can avoid defeat in three matches, then we can win the league."

Full-strength Kimblesworth are at home to a dangerous Brandon side who have pulled off some good victories in recent weeks thanks to the efforts of Campbell Robertson and Stephen Dunsford.

They bring in Chris Grieveson for John Moralee, while Michael Fort will play behind the stumps.

Kimblesworth's job could be made even easier if second-placed Evenwood lose at Ushaw Moor, who have climbed the table in the last few weeks.

Evenwood are without batsman Jonathan Milroy, but they include young spinner David Walling in their side.

Ushaw are without four regulars for various reasons, so Mattie Keogan, Nigel Malone, John Coggins and Jeff Ayre are all included in the side.

Crook Town, who are at third-bottom Sedgefield, are without Ian Williams, John Nutall and Andrew Coe, but Andy Burgess returns to the side. Sedgefield expect to be unchanged.

Esh Winning make just one change to their side away to Langley Park, with Stephen Dunn coming in for Eddie Watson.

Mainsforth are strengthened by the return of John Irvine and Stephen Jackson away to Etherley, who are missing Peter Lyall and Michael Crane.

Tudhoe, who are bottom, are strengthened by the return of batsman Simon Davies at home to Leadgate, while Darren Littlefair and Phil Wood also return.

Leadgate, who are through to four cup finals and another four semi-finals, are without all rounder Allan Reeve because of illness and bowler Gary Innes because of football commitments, otherwise they are at full strength

Shildon Railway expect to be unchanged for their home game with joint bottom Willington.