BACUP skipper John Chapman admits that James Anderson's inclusion in the Burnley side has added "fuel to the fire" of an already red-hot clash.

Anderson has been allowed to play for his old side by Lancashire as he continues to recover from a stress fracture of the back.

Bacup and Burnley are second and third in the league and Chapman said he hopes that playing against Anderson will help to inspire his side.

He said: "I remember the last time I played him when he was 17 so it'll be good to play against him again.

"Our players will have to be right up for it and Im sure they will because it's hard enough playing against one professional never mind two."

"I just hope the rain stays away because with so much quality on the field there's bound to be a big crowd on."

But Chapman says their Kiwi star Chris Cairns can inspire them to glory.

After a relatively slow start, Cairns has exploded into action and had helped to lead the Lanehead side to within two points of the leaders Ramsbottom.

He said: "It's going to be a cracking game. I think we have the momentum going into the game and Ramsbottom are really looking over their shoulders now.

"Having Chris in the side is awesome. Now he's got used to the pace of the wickets he's really starting to fire on all cylinders but having said that we won't be taking Burnley lightly.

"They will be a strong side. Their top five is as good as anything in the league and they'll be a great side with Anderson in their ranks."

Matt O'Connor and Pete Killelea miss out with Chris Bleazard and Scott Thompson coming in to the side.

For Burnley, Anderson replaces Jamal, and Burnley skipper and pro Jon Harvey reckons this game is as big as they come.

He said: "It's a close league this year and that's how we want it to be.

"By the end of this weekend, we could either be out of the title race or right in it so it's a big weekend. It's a boost to have james on board at this stage."

Leaders Ramsbottom face a tough assignment against Rishton with champions Lowerhouse, handily placed in fourth, face struggling East Lancs.

In the other fixtures, Church play Nelson, Enfield face Haslingden and Rawtenstall play Todmorden.