WYTHALL are closing in on the league leaders after opting to bat first again at the weekend.

Martin Priest's side disposed of Marconi after a few tense moments to earn another 24 precious league points while table toppers Arden Forest pocketed 20 after batting second against Corley.

The Silver Street side have been chipping away at Forest's points cushion to narrow the gap to 19 ahead of the visit of third placed Haunchwood on Saturday (2pm start). The visitors are one of only two sides to beat Wythall this season and Priest is bent on revenge and will be hoping to bat first to pile more pressure on the leaders.

Saturday is the last chance to reduce Arden's advantage before Wythall visit the leaders the following week.

With one club up from Division Four Central of the Warwickshire League, first is eveything but the Wythall skipper is not getting carried away.

There is a huge gap between second and third and Wythall could extend it to 65 points with a good win at the weekend.

Jeff Hussey is available after missing the Marconi clash through family commitments.