Today, the opening day of the ninth round of matches, eyes will be focused on the big clash between arch-rivals ICB Empire and Big B Spartan at Bank Hall, which bowls off at 1 p.m.

Over the years these teams, two of the oldest and most successful in the country, have fought intense battles, but this rivalry has dimmed in recent years.

Still the game has attracted a lot of attention and a large crowd is again expected at the small ground, as both teams are in the top half of the table.

Spartan, who relinquished the lead when they fell to Mount Gay Maple in the last round, are now in third place on 37 points. Empire beat CHIC Schools South with a day to spare in the last series and this moved them into fourth spot on 32 points.

Leaders Police, on 43 points, four ahead of second-placed Cable & Wireless BET, have every right to believe they will remain at top when they journey to Beckles Road.

The lawmen have been consistent with both bat and ball all season and should expect no terrors from the inconsistent Sports & Games YMPC.

Other matches:

Banks v BCL at the Brewery.
Mount Gay Maple v Cable & Wireless BET.
ESA Field Pickwick v United Carlton at Kensington Oval.
BNB St. Catherine v CHIC Schools South at Bayfield.
Cockspur Wanderers v CHIC Schools North at Dayrells Road.