Blackburn Northern skipper Nasser Malik insists there is still a lot of cricket to be played as the Ribblesdale League goes into its penultimate weekend.

Northern and Baxenden are locked together at the top of the Senior League table on 196 points and clash on Saturday at Back Lane in a game that could decide the destiny of the title.

And Malik, who lifted the Ramsbottom Cup after defeating their arch-rivals, said bonus points could ultimately be crucial.

He said: "It really doesn't get any bigger than this.

"Whoever win Saturday's games will become favourites but there will still be a lot of cricket to be played.

"We play Great Harwood on Sunday, and Bash have a tricky game against Whalley on the same day, so this weekend really couldn't be any more important.

"The key will be the bonus points. The team who loses better, in regards to bonus points, could still bounce back if they lose on Saturday so there's still all to play for.

"There's nothing between the teams and it should be a cracking game. These are the type of games you want to be involved in and I'm hoping we get a big crowd on."

And Malik admitted his side's two previous victories over Baxenden this season will count for nothing.

"We maybe 2-0 up but it's all about this weekend," he said.

"Both teams will go into it full of confidence and it'll be the team that plays together that will come out on top.

"Their pro, Jonathan Fielding, will be able to bowl through at one end so that will make a big difference."

He added: "Should we win on Saturday, we can't drop our levels against Great Harwood. They'll have all their big players back and can beat anyone on their day.

"We've got one piece of silverware, we just hope we can finish the season with a bang and get another."