However, full points from every game have given them a head start on their rivals and third-placed Clydesdale will be hoping to narrow the gap. With Amir Hanif, who has made a few one-day appearances for his country, in such commanding form with the bat - he is already approaching the 500 mark in his team's five league games - the home team is at last beginning to show that they will be contenders for a first division place.

Hanif, Ian Stanger and Greig Williamson shoulder the main bowling burden but the lack of quality back-up may be significant as the race hots up, especially as Stanger and Williamson are likely to find themselves in the Scottish squad for the forthcoming heavy programme of international matches.

Aberdeenshire however, have shown signs of fragility, losing in the cup to West Lothian last Sunday. After a formidable start, Brad Wigney's wickets have dried up, Kevin Thomson has not yet made an impact with the ball and Mike Smith is also well below his best.

Their Australian overseas amateur Garth Nottle has been their most effective performer with both bat and ball and a return to form by his colleagues tommorrow is vital if they are to keep their unblemished league record intact.

Ayr, in second place, look to have an easier task at Cambusdoon, where they face an Uddingston side which gave Edinburgh Accies their first win of the season last week. Stirling County desperately need to record their first win of the season at home to Accies, otherwise third division cricket looms large next season.

Conference A leaders Heriot's should be too strong for Kelburne at Whitehaugh, especially if they repeat their form of last week when they so comprehensively beat GHK.

Conference B leaders, West of Scotland travel to Falkland, whose opener Gary Maslam is in a rich seam of form. The Partick club should, however, prove too strong for their Fife opponents.