MARK Caldwell is expecting a red-hot battle against the Balti House as his side attempt to retain the coveted Echo Cup.

The two teams are set to lock horns in the final of the annual competition at Redlands tonight (6.30pm) but although the Saggies are the reigning champions the clash is expected to be a close call.

Captain Caldwell told Echosport: “I suppose as cup holders it is ours to lose but although we are not coming up against the superstars of the Moby Dick’s Bears this time, the Balti House are still a very capable side.

“They are actually very similar to us in regards to the fact they have a few good cricketers and some bit-part players who can do a job.

“I know they will probably play the underdogs card but I don’t think there is really a lot in it.

“We may have the likes of Kieron Womble, Ben Doidge and Simon Browne, who are all important for us, but they also have good players in Andy Jarvis, Sam Polley and Marco Nott.

“With the forecast also predicting more inclement weather, which could make the pitch a bit damp, it promises to be a really close game.”

Saggies: Caldwell, Doidge, Womble, S Browne, A Browne, Camp, King, Evans, Robinson, Gadsby, Mutch, Ryan.

Balti: Russ, Gibson, Turner, Tibble, Borrington, Bament, Thureirajah, Jarvis, Polley, Steeples, Tye.