Somerset hoping to halt Rangers
Although it is the last chance for many Cup Match hopefuls to make their impression on selectors in the last trial matches today, tomorrow's Premier Division schedule throws up a few mouthwatering fixtures.
Willow Cuts host Bailey's Bay at Wellington Oval as Somerset's wicket is being prepared for the annual classic, while St. David's will look to keep pace with the leaders when they clash with PHC at St. David's.
The most intriguing match will see Southampton Rangers, looking to stay at the top the pile, lock horns against Somerset at Southampton Oval.
This same match last year, on the last day of the season, was a pivotal one with Southampton hoping a win would see them become champions, while Somerset knew a victory would be enough keep their top flight status.
With both teams still in the Premier Division, and most of Somerset's Cup Match hopefuls on both sides of the fence in this match, Somerset skipper Jacobi Robinson reckons the match will be good preparation for what lies ahead for those selected for the two-day festivities.
"It is definitely important for us to win because a win will certainly put us in the hunt for the league title," said Robinson. "This match won't be put on the back burner by any stretch of the imagination.
"Both sides will have players who will be in Cup Match and it will be good for some of them to get some form ahead of the big day.
"The guys that make the team will want to find their form and for the bowlers they will want to hit their marks."
A win against the western rivals will see Somerset move within striking distance of the top of the charts, while a loss will leave them little chance to win the 50-over crown.
No stranger to a big game like this, Robinson has urged his team-mates to produce the goods, just as they have in their two wins over St. David's already this year.
"We know that last year was last year and we as a team have come a long way and are much stronger," he said.
"We have beaten St. David's twice this year so that shows that we have the ability to beat the top teams, it is just a matter of us dealing with what we have to do on the day.
"All games this week are dress rehearsals for what is to come, I will be looking for those who make Cup Match to carry the weight and we also have some players, like Garvin Aparicio, who can also produce so we can get something out of the weekend."
