Carlisle and Cockermouth are both at full strength for the final games of the 2022 season.
The Cumbria League’s Premier Division title is up for grabs on Saturday as the two protagonists play the deciding games only thirteen miles apart.
For while Cockermouth, who start five points behind, tackle Wigton at Sandair, leaders Carlisle visit Fitz Park in Keswick.
On paper Carlisle have the tougher test as Keswick were very much in the hunt for the title themselves until three weeks ago.
On the other hand Cockermouth will know they have already lost at home to Wigton this season, albeit in a T20 group game. This will be different in approach.
Traditionally, however, Keswick always seem to struggle towards the end of a season as rugby union and football calls often deny them useful performers.
They did well enough last week at Haverigg but Carlisle will be a much harder nut to crack tomorrow.
Cockermouth beat Workington by nine wickets while Wigton were comfortably beaten at home by out-going champions Furness.
Carlisle were long-time League leaders until beaten at home by Cockermouth who briefly took over at the top.
Then the weather intervened and while Cockermouth were rained off, Carlisle were able to complete and win their fixture – hence the five-point lead at the top which they have retained.
One local enthusiast said this week that Carlisle and Cockermouth were two outstanding teams and he would like to see them share the title – but only the weather can engineer that now.
With the forecast set fair the final day will be played out on the pitch.
Both sides will be at full strength with Carlisle welcoming back opener and wicket-keeper Tom Benn. Seamer Henry Walker is likely to drop to 12th man.
Cockermouth’s overseas amateur Mikyle Louis plays his final game before flying home on Tuesday to St Kitts Nevis.
“He’s a cracking young player and a fantastic lad and all things being equal I think we will be hoping he can come back next year,” said former skipper Gareth White.
Louis has a batting average of 36.00 with a top score of 81 but missed a month of the season with a hamstring injury.
As a little side-show to the title showdown, a spinner in both camps is competing to be the leading bowler in the League. Both are Cumbria county team-mates.
Carlisle’s Nico Watt has 55 wickets (avge 8.51) while Cockermouth’s Matthew Siddall has taken 51 wickets (avge 8.27) – and both are capable of winning the final game for their side.
Relegation is sorted ahead of the final day with Dalton going down to be replaced by Lindal Moor next season.
Other games tomorrow: Cleator v Dalton; Egremont v Whitehaven; Furness v Millom; Workington v Haverigg.
