THE Tilney Pro50 Cup looks almost certain to be decided tomorrow (Sun) in what promises to be a fascinating shootout between the Eastern Knights and the Caley Highlanders at The Grange.
A home win would see the Knights complete a successful defence of their title while the Highlanders would put themselves in pole position if they can avenge their defeat at Forthill on the opening day of the campaign back in May.
The latter outcome, though, would also bring the Western Warriors back into contention albeit that Andy Tennant’s side would need a big win in next Sunday’s final match at Forthill to over-turn a considerably inferior net run-rate.
Such calculations will not play a part in the Knights’ preparations as they bid to reproduce the form that saw them secure a comfortable 20-run win over the Warriors in their last 50-overs contest.
That was more than two months ago and coach Stevie Gilmour has enjoyed the luxury of a settled selection with Ali Evans the only absentee from the eleven who took to the field at Cambusdoon, the Scotland seamer’s place going to Tom Foulds.
In contrast Ryan Watson, the Highlanders’ coach, has had to deal with several availability issues with his side showing three changes from their last game – also a victory against the Warriors.
Chris Greaves, Christian Robertson and Callum Garden are missing but on the plus side the Highlanders welcome back their inspirational skipper Kyle Coetzer who will take his place at the top of the order.
In-form Forfarshire batsman Rory Johnston is drafted in and may partner Coetzer while there is a first regional call-up for Stoneywood-Dyce bowler Jamie King.
King already boasts 29 Strathmore & Perthshire Union wickets this season with a best of 7-27 and may add some bite to the Highlanders’ attack.
Knights: G Munsey, M Carson, M Castle, D Budge, P Mommsen, M Watt, P Ross, H van der Berg, G Goudie, A Brock, T Foulds.
Highlanders: K Coetzer, R Johnston, C Wallace, M Leask, H Laing, S Sharif, S Cameron, U Mohammed, B Ditchmen, J Hogarth, R Brown, J King.
