Matches coming up in the Norwich Union League

There are just two matches in Division One and two in Division Two of the Norwich Union League this coming weekend, but quality certainly makes up for quantity when it comes to the top class. It's a case of first against second and it could well be that the outcome of the title chase could take significant shape this weekend.

Expect a big crowd at Worcester on Monday when local rivals Worcestershire Royals and Warwickshire Bears. The match is being played on Monday as opposed to Sunday as scheduled because of Warwickshire's appearance in the B&H Cup final. But it is not just local rivalry that gives the game its edge. The Bears currently sit proudly atop the table, and their nearest rivals are the Royals from down the road.

There are just four points separating the teams, and that is only because the Royals have played a game less. Both are unbeaten - except by the weather this season, so whether it's a battle royal or more like a bear pit, something has got to give at New Road on Monday.

On Sunday, Durham Dynamos have the chance to break their duck this season when they have a match against Yorkshire Pheonix at Chester-le-Street. It is a match that could define the Phoenix season. If they win, they could rise up to one of the top places, but if they lose, they would be sucked into the relegation dogfight.

In Division Two, Derbyshire Scorpions are the highest placed team in action this week. They are currently fourth on run rate, but a win against lowly Lancashire Lightening could see them right up in the promotion frame. A win for Surrey Lions at The Oval against Sussex Sharks could see them get a lift in the standings. And the Sharks, having kick-started their season with their first win, will be looking to dash the Lions' hopes and climb further up the table themselves.