NELSON go into Sunday’s Worsley Cup semi-final showdown with Accrington without professional Keshav Maharaj.

The South African has been called up to his country’s ‘A’ side. But nine-times Worsley Cup winners Nelson will still be hoping to avoid last season’s semi-final exit.

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To succeed, they will have to overcome a determined Accrington at Seedhill.

“We are just finalising details for a sub pro to come in,” said Nelson chairman David Heap.

“Accrington have a very strong professional in Ockert Erasmus but I’m hoping our sub can come in and give us a great chance.

“It should be a very competitive and very exciting game and it’s one everyone is looking forward to.”

Heap hopes his side’s rich Worsley Cup history will spur the players on.

“We have a great history in this competition; we’ve won it nine times and would love to make it 10,” he said.

“We have a very strong amateur bowling attack and we think that will work in our favour on Sunday.

“Either way, it should be a great game against a very good Accrington side.”

Accrington captain Graeme Sneddon said: “It won’t be easy as Nelson away is a tough prospect for any side, but on our day we are a match for anyone,” he said.

“Winning a trophy would be a great way to finish the season but we’re under no illusions about how tough it will be.”