Foster's Northumberland and Tyneside Senior League: Lanchester have received a big boost ahead of their game against Shotley Bridge at The Spa with the news that Phil Carlin is available.

He has been a big hit since his return from service in the Gulf but missed last week's win over Ryton, which was achieved with an unbeaten innings from Farouk Iqbal, batting at number six.

The inclusion of Carlin will undoubtedly strengthen the early order as Lanchester face one of their most difficult games for some time. Alan College drops into the second XI.

Fifth-placed Shotley Bridge are pleased that both Billy Gibson and Neil Burdon, a former captain, can play. Victory is essential if they are to reduce Lanchester's lead and make a serious second-half challenge to retain the championship.

Newcastle City are second, 17 points adrift of Lanchester. They have home advantage over fourth-placed Lintz and anticipate fielding the same line-up which enjoyed an eighth win of the season last Saturday.

Lintz are still handily placed in fourth position despite their inconsistent form.

Although Stuart Clennell returns, his brother Graeme and Gary Christie are both side-lined.

At the other end of the table, Ryton are fighting a relegation battle for the second successive year.

In 2002, they were successful when they recorded a number of victories in the latter part of the season. Keith Morris, who was ill last weekend, replaces Paul Bainbridge for the visit of Ashington, who keep faith with the same side despite losing their previous match.

Sacriston too name the same XI and they will be hoping for more of the same from Harry Hubber, who scored a second century of the season last Saturday. They are at home to Leadgate, who after winning the Division A2 championship at a canter last season, have found the top flight a totally different proposition.

Swalwell are at full strength for their fixture with Backworth at Derwenthaugh while Annfield Plain miss Philip Donnelly at third-top Tynedale, who will certainly miss the batting talents of Tim Adcock. Another absentee is David Holt.

The pair are replaced by Joe Barber and Graham Fox.