BORDERS cricket clubs have either promotion or avoiding relegation on their minds as they prepare for the start of the East of Scotland League season this weekend. Kelso are gunning to reach the highest league in Scotland – East Premiership – this season, and have re-signed last year’s top run scorer Michael Eckard from South Africa alongside New Zealander Tristan van Ingen-kal. They host Murrayfield DAFS in the opening game in the Championship this Saturday.

Gala avoided relegation from the Championship due to a league restructure last season, but are again expecting a tough campaign with a number of players unavailable at different times of the year.

The Braw Lads have signed Australians Nick Giofre and Dan Fisher to boost the ranks ahead of an away game at Musselburgh.

St Boswells will be captained by Scott Turnbull who returns following a knee injury and host Boroughmuir at the Green on Saturday seeking to consolidate their Division Two position after narrowly avoiding relegation last season.

There will be a Borders derby in Division Three this season as Selkirk and Hawick face each other. Rory Banks will lead Selkirk against Fauldhouse in their opening game, while Hawick under Ronan Alexander’s leadership will play Edinburgh Accies at Buccleuch Park.

Melrose are aiming for a third promotion in a row when they travel to Dunbar in Division Four, and Peebles County go to Heriots 3s.

The Gala/Hawick Development Team continues this season, and are due to play Stewart’s Melville 4s at Meigle Park on Saturday in Division Seven.

Kelso and Gala's games start at 12noon while all other matches start at 1pm.