Ayr are out to prove that they belong at the top

They were the last team to win the title before two years of dominance by Clydesdale and today Ayr will attempt to prove they are ready for another tilt at glory by beating the champions.

Andi Mcelnea’s men have home advantage at Cambusdoon and are in high spirits following their derby success at Prestwick but Dale also won their local scrap against Poloc. Mcelnea has a new weapon in his armoury following the emergence of opening batsman and wicket-keeper Neil Smith as a potent bowler. Smith has developed the knack of picking up crucial wickets while conceding few runs and Mcelnea said: “Neil’s bowling has given the team a lift. He just bowls a tight line and length and keeps it nice and simple.”

Clydesdale have selection problems, with Scotland all-rounder Richie Berrington ruled out and Con de Lange doubtful. The Titwood side hand top-team chances to youngsters Kallum Dhami and Hamid Mahmood.

Ferguslie will attempt to stay top by beating Dumfries at Meikleriggs. That is no foregone conclusion given the capabilities of the visitors, who have already beaten champions Clydesdale. Anup Vejandla is unavailable so Lucas Frandale comes in, along with Greg Cameron. Tom Mcbride and Chris Bellwood will aim to maintain their scoring form for the visitors.

Poloc hope to recapture their form of the opening two weeks of the season when they entertain East Kilbride. The Shawholm troops have lost three in a row to slip to third bottom, while EK sit a place below.

Uddingston have the chance to step up their challenge when they entertain a Kelburne side who have yet to win.

Greenock, bidding to bounce back from a Scottish Cup exit at the hands of League One Drumpellier, host Prestwick. Harry Briggs and Sailesh Prabhu are unavailable for the hosts who draft in Sehmat Pandher and Fraser Godsman. Prestwick are determined to consolidate their place in the top three.