FOR both England and Aberdeenshire, this weekend is decisive.
Though the eyes of the nation are more likely to be fixed on Headingley, the venue for the fourth Test starting today, those of the north-east may spare more than a glimpse towards Mannofield – the home of an Aberdeenshire side which has confounded the critics to mount a real challenge in the Premier Division of the National League.
Shire take on leaders Grange tomorrow and the winners will take the lead into the last three games of the season.
Although a loss would not mean a final nail in any championship coffins for either side, a win for Aberdeenshire would keep the league title pursuit in our own hands.
If this game is not important enough, it is followed on Sunday by a Scottish Cup semi-final against Clydesdale, the only team to have beaten Shire this season.
That they have done it twice indicates it will be a tough game. I find semi-finals the hardest games to be involved in as they are merely stepping stones to the big day.
Of the many semi-finals I have been a part of, in Australia and here in Scotland, I cannot remember any we won, but I remember every one we lost.
I think it has something to do with so near but so far.
Although Clydesdale have had the beating of us this year, on the four occasions I can remember playing them in the Scottish Cup over the years we have won on all occasions.
All our players have shown remarkable skill and belief this season and there is no reason why that won’t continue.
As for the Ashes, this fourth Test is massive. Since the first Test in Cardiff England have been thoroughly in control, although admittedly this was due to bowling twice in conditions which have favoured their outstanding swing bowlers Jimmy Anderson and Graham Onions. England’s batting has been solid and Australia’s bowling surprisingly below par.
Will Australia risk playing Brett Lee – a player who has not played for a month after a side strain – or stick with the attack which has showed little of the teeth it did not so long ago in South Africa?
I believe they have to gamble on Lee if he is fit. He is by far the most experienced bowler in the team and the one bowler who looked in form prior to the Tests.
It is also a pivotal moment in the series.
A win for Australia would put them in the box seat to retain the Ashes at The Oval.