Richmondshire lead the way at the top of the Darlington Building Society NYSD ECB Premier League table by just a single point and - rain permitting - they welcome near neighbours and champions Barnard Castle to Hurgill Road.

Vice-captain Robert Carr, who makes one change as Michael Platt comes in to replace Matty Price, said: “This is a massive game, but we are at home and we have all been looking forward to this one.

“It’s always a tough game against them, as they are a very good side, but it would be good to put some distance between us and them with a win.”

Barney are unchanged and skipper James Quinn said: “We will be expecting a tough test against our local rivals. We will be looking to play positive cricket and try and put them under pressure, and hopefully head back to Vere Road with a positive result.”

Darlington travel to Thornaby and club official Garry Moody said: “Mark Davies is unavailable for the trip, so Nathan Wright takes his place. We are hoping to get a full day of cricket, and get some much needed points on the board.”

The home side make one change to the side, as Lewis Beaumont comes in for Dale Metcalfe.

In the Dukes ECB North East Premier League, Sacriston will travel to Hetton Lyons without Mel Betts (work) and Jonny Bushnell (school game).

Fixture secretary Iain Bestford said: “Will Gidman will return, having missed the last two weeks due to work commitments. Chris McBride will also be available, having been unavailable for selection last week due to a Scotland A team tour.”

Burnmoor entertain Newcastle and will be strengthened by the return from injury of Paul Craig, Martin Hubber, Craig Symington, Graeme Bridge and Ryan Pringle.

First team captain Alec Linsley said: “The washed out games last week gave our players more time to recover, which is great news. We are looking forward to welcoming Newcastle to the Elopa Village Ground, for the first time in our history.

“They have always been one of the forces to be reckoned with in the NEPL Premier Division, and we will have our work cut out. However, I am confident that home advantage will play its part and we can upset the odds with a victory and keep the pressure on the teams above us.”

Chester-Le-Street are at Burnopfield and skipper John Coxon said: “We have a full squad to choose from for the game, as Ben Whitehead returns from injury, with Brodie Glendinning. Alex McGrath is also back and will add strength to the bowling attack and everyone is really keen to impress and we will be looking to narrow the gap between us and the top.”

Burnopfield first team captain John Oswell said: “Scott Steel has a recurring knee injury and will be missing for a few weeks. We have engaged Cameron Bancroft, Australian batsman and Durham captain, as a replacement. Apart from that, the team will be unchanged.”

Eppleton are at leaders South North and home secretary Duncan Stephen said: “We face a tough game against undefeated Eppleton at Roseworth Terrace, but the Bulls are determined to bounce back after the national disappointment last Sunday at Richmondshire.”

In the Northumberland and Tyneside Cricket League, Lanchester travel to Percy Main have just one change to last week’s team.

Greg Halliday returns to the squad, replacing Bryan Potts. Percy vice-captain Will Taylor will take over the captaincy, in David Anderson’s absence. James Peart will step up as opening batsman.

Readers Durham Cricket League leaders Easington take on fourth-placed Seaham Park and if the visitors are going to close the current 51-point gap, they will need to win.

Tudhoe are at Durham City and City skipper Mark Woodhead has Nick Howe back and they also welcome out of retirement, ex-England international Danni Hazell.