NE Premier League: Washington raring to go in belated opening day showdown with South Shields

Skipper Ash Thorpe has two new additions to his team, having landed Michael Nunn from Seaham Harbour and Scott Latimer, who has been playing in Yorkshire.

Thorpe said: “Daniel Woolston also returns from Masham. The rest of the squad is as usual and we are looking forward to the first game this week, having been scheduled to tackle Seaham Harbour last week.”

South Shields, newly relegated from the top flight, have signed Rupesh Borade as their overseas amateur, having had him at the club for a few years.

Originally from an orphanage in India, he has now found a family back home, according to Chairman Jim Elliott.

Elliott said: “We have lost a few players and have decided to promote from within and trust our younger players this season and we are looking to get back into the Premier Division.”

Sunderland journey to Burnmoor, with both sides looking to build on their opening-day victories.

Ashbrooke skipper Greg Applegarth said: “Following an excellent start, with 30 points against Gateshead Fell, the squad that selection will be made from, remains the same.

“More of the same results and good play will boost early-season confidence.”

Burnmoor skipper Alec Linsley, whose men kicked off with a fine success at Boldon, said: “We are pretty much unchanged, but still waiting for the overseas professional to have his visa granted.

“If that materialises, he will replace Mark Robson.

“Harry Munton stepped into the breach last week and took four wickets, so he will keep his place. Gareth Harte, the club’s Durham player, may be available.”

Boldon are unchanged as they head to newly-promoted Castle Eden.

Skipper Chris Ellison said: “It’s the same team as last week, except Barry McCarthy, the club’s Durham registered player, who has been made unavailable and will be replaced by Philip Shakespeare, a like for like change, with both being bowlers.”

Brandon are at Gateshead Fell and skipper Chris Peareth said: “We will be the same team as last Saturday, with the exception of Stephen Parnaby, who is playing in place of Dean Crampton.

“It is not yet known if Ryan Pringle will be made available by Durham.”

Gateshead Fell will be unchanged from last weekend.

Burnopfield skipper Neil Killeen will have to make one change from last week for the visit to Willington.

Killeen said: “It looks like there will be one change from the game last weekend, with Joel Selway replacing Billy Plender.”

Blaydon sit out this weekend.