JOE Dale says there is a buzz of excitement around Cumnor’s Cricketer Village Cup last-16 clash on Sunday.

Victory in their home game against Sarisbury Athletic would see the Cherwell League Division 1 side move to within two games of a Lord’s final.

And while they are trying to put thoughts of a match at the home of cricket to their back of their minds, club captain Joe Dale admits it is hard not to dream.

“We are all really excited,” he said.

“There is a real buzz around the whole club – I think having a run like this really unites everybody and puts a spotlight on us which is great.”

He added: “The road to Lord’s is spoken about jovially to begin with, but yes, now there have been some mentions of it. It’s impossible not to.

“If you can get close to something like that, it makes it all the more exciting and we are certainly going to use that as motivation.”

However, Dale is fully aware those dreams will be shattered if Cumnor let their standards slip against the Hampshire champions.

An impressive 112-run win over Binfield a fortnight ago secured their passage into the last 16, Harry Ackland leading the way with a sensational 155 off 92 balls.

“Harry has been really impressive in both this competition and the league,” said Dale.

“Hopefully he can produce the goods again, but if he doesn’t, we need to make sure others do.

“We have strength in depth and a varied bowling attack, it’s just about enough players producing on the day.”

Dale missed the win over Binfield but comes back into the side along with George Setterfield.

Michael Race is on holiday while Toby Strong is struggling with injury.

A big crowd is expected, meaning Cumnor have had plenty of discussions about arrangements on the day.

“Lots of messages and emails have been flying around about who is doing the barbeque, running the bar and managing parking,” Dale added.

“Luckily we have a good arrangement with Cumnor Minors, who are about 50 yards away, and we can park cars there so there should be room for everyone who wants to attend.

“It should be a great day – hopefully we can get the right result.”

Cumnor: Lee (c), Dale, Ackland, Cross, Bull, Davies, Powell, Kelley, Clapton, Setterfield, Herbert.