Neither Alec Davies nor Darren Cornforth are likely to be back in time from Holland where they have been involved with the national team.

It was to have been the first of two crucial fixtures over the weekend for West Lothian but their clash with Grange, the other front runners, has been postponed because of Grange's Abbot Ale quarter-final against Harrogate on Sunday.

Hillhead, in fourth place, face bottom club Dunfermline. The former Glasgow League club have done well in this, their first season at this level, and much credit must go to Grant Parmenter, their popular and long-serving professional but second division cricket is an increasing reality for them.

The top fixture in the west takes Conference C leaders Ayr to Titwood to play Clydesdale. Clydesdale will almost certainly be without two of their most important players, Ian Stanger and Greig Williamson, who are both on duty with Scotland and, yet again, much will depend upon Amir Hanif. Ayr's likely loss of Bruce Patterson is perhaps less crucial especially with Kevin Roberts in such devastating form with the bat.

Aberdeenshire, still clinging to second place, expect Neil MacRae to be fit for their home game against Stirling. MacRae's return is vital for their push for first division status especially as Ferguslie have what appears to be a relatively easy home game against Edinburgh Accies.

West of Scotland make the short journey to Poloc where they will expect to strengthen their place at the top of Conference B.