YORK go into an Oxbridge ECB Yorkshire Premier Cricket League double-header this weekend praying for good weather.

It is make-or-break for Marcus Wood's team as they face leaders Barnsley tomorrow and go to Castleford on Sunday.

York are four points behind Barnsley but that margin could be increased to eight if the South Yorkshire side win their appeal against a points deduction at a hearing scheduled for next Thursday.

The potential eight-point gap means that York will have to strive for an outright win at Shaw Lane tomorrow to get the maximum haul.

The additional pressures on Wood are an uncertain weather forecast and the fact that Barnsley's pitch was relaid 18 months ago and usually produces a result.

Barnsley have recruited well with former Yorkshire Colts Zac Morris and Simon Widdup joining them, while another ex-Yorkshire Seconds player, Rich Wilkinson, is captain. Joe Ellis has also proved a valuable all-rounder this season.

York expect to have quickie Nick Thornicroft back from Yorkshire duty, so will be at full strength.

However, the paceman is not available for the following day's game at Castleford and will be replaced by Tom Bartram.

Castleford are way down the premier division table but on Bank Holiday Monday they snuffed the Championship chances of Sheffield Collegiate so cannot be taken lightly.

In their ranks they boast all-time leading league run-scorer Andrew Bourke, who is in good form with both bat and ball.