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Stoneywood Dyce, whose rise to the highest echelons of domestic cricket in Scotland has been spectacular, challenge Aberdeenshire's dominance in the north-east tomorrow in their first league meeting.

If Stoneywood have ground advantage, their better-known rivals would seem to have most of the trump cards. The only blemish on their season so far has come with the loss of points for a lethargic over-rate, but a series of powerful performances has left them perched at the top of the Premiership with three wins out of three.

Jason Arnberger, boasting an impressive track record with West of Scotland and Victoria in Australia, was expected to score runs for the Mannofield side, and he has obliged. His only dip came last week when he was dismissed cheaply for the first time. With opening partner Neil MacRae he provides a solid platform for the rest of the batting, now bolstered by the return of Mike Smith from World Cup duty.

Stoneywood's success has been based on team effort and the enthusiastic leadership of former Mannofield player Andy Bee, who would like to put one over on his old colleagues.

Carlton, in second place, have been the surprise packet of the season with Cedric English in impressive form with both bat and ball, well supported by a hard-working team now functioning as a real unit. Tomorrow they travel to Boghall to face a West Lothian team still licking their wounds from last week's humiliation at Hamilton Crescent and a record low score of 31.

Any slip will allow Ayr, in third place, to close the gap. Tomorrow, at New Cambusdoon, Grange are the visitors. The Edinburgh side have suffered a fall from grace and languish at the foot of the table, having lost all their games.

West of Scotland, after a hesitant start, burst into action with a vengeance last week and should have too much ammunition at home for a Ferguslie side who have failed to show consistency. Greenock, heavily dependent upon Australian duo Dene Hills and Chris Swan, entertain a similarly inconsistent Heriot's.

Division One leaders Strathmore go to Forthill for a local derby which should see them extend their lead, while second-placed Clydesdale will expect to maintain their momentum when they make the short trip to Hillhead.

Falkland's pole position in Division Two, however, may come under threat at the Tryst, where Stenhousemuir will be looking to take over the leadership. Stirling County, short of a cutting edge with their bowling, need to beat GHK at home to establish their promotion credentials.

Craig Wright took four for 60 as Scotland B dismissed Durham University for 169 in their two-day encounter at the Racecourse Ground.

But the Scots then failed to build on their promising start and hopes of a quick victory were shaken by the loss of vital wickets before the close. They finished on 66 for three.