A BIG turnout is expected at Sambourne Lane as Astwood Bank bid to clinch the Worcestershire League Premier Division crown with victory over title rivals Stourbridge on Saturday.
Bank have been in relentless form in their pursuit of the long-time leaders and this weekend the division’s best two sides will go head-to-head in their battle to progress to the Birmingham League play-offs.
Bank will have to overturn a seven-point deficit in order to seal top spot but will be buoyant after a 14th win of the campaign at home to Bewdley last time out.
Spin kings Dan Taylor (4-46) and Josh Baker (4-41) were the architects of Bank’s success as their magic dismissed Bewdley for 178 in the 50th over despite 59 from captain Rob Combes.
Bank were in trouble at 21-3 but a thunderous 75 off just 45 balls from Tom Underhill steadied the ship and Connor Adams’ unbeaten 51 saw the hosts home for the loss of five wickets with almost half of their overs to spare.
