The Vaux Northern League cricket programme is interrupted this Saturday for the Vaux Bitter cup.

The first round matches see Lancaster away to bottom of the league club Preston, while Morecambe is at home, at Woodhill Lane, to Leyland DAF.

Morecambe have now appointed prison officer Phil Thornton as their new captain, in place of Michael Lamb. Opening batsman Graham Fisher has been in charge of team affairs during the interim period.

Lancaster had a disappointing weekend, losing their first league match at Chorley by seven wickets. They were also beaten by 54 runs by Harrogate in the Abbot Ale N.C.A. Knockout at Lune Road. Nevertheless they should make progress in the cup at the expense of Preston at West Cliff.

Morecambe also suffered their first defeat of the season at Woodhill Lane last Saturday, beaten by four wickets by Leyland. However, they have home advantage in the cup against Leyland DAF who have only recorded one win all season.

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