THE chairmen of Chard CC and Ilminster CC are looking forward to the Baker Cup final match at the County Ground tomorrow (Thursday).

For Ilminster it will be their seventh Baker Cup final, while for Chard it will be their first and their chairman Kevin Clancy is hoping it will be a good game.

He said: “Rivalry between the two sides might be strong, but there are still friendships between the two clubs as well.

“Ilminster have had the upper hand over Chard in recent years, but I’m sure we can put out a good enough team to give them a decent match.”

Mr Clancy’s opposite number at Ilminster, Jim Sainsbury, may have different hopes for the outcome of the game, but is also looking forward to it.

He said: “The guys are really looking forward to the contest, especially as it is on the County Ground. To reach a final is an achievement but to play Chard is the icing on the cake.

“At one time Ilminster couldn’t get a fixture with Chard because we were deemed not to be strong enough so we have come a long way since then.

“Recent history and some interchange of personnel will add something to the encounter but I am sure the game will be played in the right spirit.

“I suppose we have to be favourites given our league status but 20 over cricket is a great leveller and anything can happen on the night.”

“I will look forward to buying my old friend Kevin Clancy a pint on Thursday, hopefully as a consolation.”

l Don’t miss next week’s Chard and Ilminster News - out on Wednesday - for full coverage of the match.