Shire’ s run of big games continues

The big games keep coming for Forfarshire who squared last weekend’s double-header with champions Heriot’s.

Their Eastern Premier League title hopes may have suffered a blow with a heavy defeat last Saturday, but the Forthill cricketers kept their Scottish Cup defence on course with a thrilling run-chase the following day.

Today they can get their league challenge back on track but only if they can end Grange’s perfect start to the campaign.

The Edinburgh team head to Broughty Ferry boasting six straight wins but Shire skipper Scott

Cameron said: “Of course we can get the better of them but only if we play to the best of our abilities.

“Grange are a very good team but if we field and bat like I know we can then we can beat them.”

Cameron will be looking for more runs from opener Rory Johnston following his century for Scotland A against MCC in midweek, adding: “It’s good to see his Forfarshire batting being recognised and then him showing everyone what he can do on the next stage up.”

Shire draft in Harjeet Brar for a debut while Grange make no fewer than five changes from last week’s line-up without looking any weaker on paper.

Grange captain Tom Foulds said: “What has impressed me in the last couple of weeks is the way guys who aren’t regulars have come in and performed.

“We’ve created a relaxed environment and I think that makes it easier for guys to come in and perform which they have done. We’ll look to continue that over the next few weeks.

“Tomorrow will be a tough challenge – Forfarshire are a really good outfit but we’ve had a good record against them in the last few years.”

Elsewhere, Falkland have the chance to build on last week’s tense win against Stoneywood-Dyce and gain revenge when they welcome Carlton to Scroggie Park.

Falkland skipper Jack Henderson said: “We were in a strong position against them in the Scottish Cup a few weeks ago and the batting fell apart so we are setting out to make that right this weekend.”

Logan Briggs and Ryan Hepburn come in for Matt Surry and Adam Ferguson.

Meigle, seeking a second win of the campaign, will have to raise their game if they are to get any reward from the visit of unbeaten champions Heriot’s to Victory Park.