Talent on display in top of table clash

The greatest ever array of Scottish cricket talent could be on display at Broughty Ferry today when pacesetters Forfarshire square up to Grange.

That was the view of home skipper Umair Mohammed as he rounded off preparations for what promises to be an intriguing battle.

Forfarshire launched their unbeaten sequence by claiming the scalp of the champions on their own patch on the opening day of the campaign.

Now Mohammed is determined to inspire his men to a remarkable double as the season enters its second half.

Both line-ups are brimming with international stars and promising youngsters.

Mohammed said: “The level of skill and natural ability on show will be awesome in terms of the club game in this country.

“In fact, I believe these will be the strongest two teams that have gone head to head in a league fixture.

“We are very much looking forward to the challenge – and the prospect of the sun staying out to give us the chance of playing a full game. It should be a fun day out for everyone who is involved.”

A home win would leave Grange with a real battle on their hands to make up the leeway – however, if the Edinburgh men earn revenge, they will add significantly to their momentum.

Stumbling giants Arbroath are hoping that last weekend’s Scottish Cup triumph over RHC will stand them in good stead as they meet the same opponents at Barnton.

But they have again been rocked by selection worries with five regulars unavailable.

Calvin Burnett, Matty Parker and Bryce Carnegie have work commitments, while Hayden Laing is on holiday and Daryl Sinclair has a broken finger.

That leaves the way open for 16-yearold Ben O’Mara to make his league debut, and skipper Marc Petrie stated: “The lad is an impressive batting allrounder who has scored heavily for the seconds over the past couple of seasons.

“We are heading in the right direction, though it must be remembered that we are a young squad which has gone through a lot of changes.

“While we were delighted with the cup success, we know RHC will be tough.

“They are a well-drilled team captained excellently by Majid Haq, who himself is a major threat and is still one of the top bowlers in the country.”

Elsewhere, third-placed Heriot’s make the short jaunt to Myreside to meet inconsistent Watsonians.

Carlton are sure to be buoyed up by their Cup victory over Grange when they collide with Stoneywood-Dyce at Peoples Park, while Stewarts-Melville take on Aberdeenshire in the basement battle at Inverleith.