Same XI for Beds at Suffolk

This follows a much improved performance in the last game against Hertfordshire which was rained off after Beds had got themselves into a commanding position on the first day.

They will be looking though for a few more runs against Suffolk. The batsmen have struggled all season and it was only a skilful and patient innings of 65 by Steve Stubbings which enabled them to gain the upper hand at Bishop’s Stortford.

Skipper Ollie Clayson will be hoping some of the other batsmen hit form this weekend, while telling himself to forget about the reverse sweep until he is well set as that stroke has been his downfall in the last two games.

The return of Martin Weightman, who missed the one-day matches, has given the bowling attack more of a cutting edge.

He and Andy McGarry were a superb opening combination against Hertfordshire.

George Thurstance and Colin Griggs will again be in support and if the wicket turns, Beds have three spinners to call on – Chris Esh, Andy Reynoldson and Dan Bendon.

The game starts on Sunday and continues on Monday and Tuesday.

Bedfordshire: Oliver Clayson, Steve Stubbings, James Kettleborough, George Thurstance, Andy Reynoldson, Dan Bendon, Martin Weightman, George Arblaster, Chris Esh, Colin Griggs, Andy McGarry.