Cropredy all-rounder Richard Lynch and Kingston Bagpuize seamer Simon Launder make their competitive debuts for Oxfordshire against Berkshire on Sunday.

The pair both impressed in Oxon's warm-up games and have got the call for the opening 38-County Championship group game at Thatcham.

"This will be a big test for them," said coach Jack Potter.

"They have both looked good in the build-up, but now we will find out what they have got."

Oxfordshire will be without vice-captain Stewart Laudat, who is missing with a damaged knee.

The Rover Cowley all-rounder injured the joint on a snowboarding holiday.

It is hoped he will be fit for the first three-day Minor Counties Championship game away to Cheshire, starting on June 2.

Also unavailable is Oxford & Horspath's Shahbaz Ali, who is visiting Mecca.

Despite these absences, Potter believes this is the strongest side he has put out in his season-and-a-bit in charge.

"We are looking very strong," Potter said. "I would have liked Laudat to be playing, but otherwise we are looking pretty powerful.

"If you add Ben Thompson to that side, when he comes back from university, then it looks very good - on paper at least.

"It is encouraging to get a good-looking team out so early."

Banbury captain Craig Haupt is in the side, and has made himself available for all the 38-County Championship matches.

However, it is not thought that he will be playing in the three-day Championship games.

Oxfordshire (v Berkshire, Thatcham, 11am): K Arnold, R Hawkins (both Banbury Twenty), C Haupt (Banbury), K Mustow (Oxford & H), C Knightley (Richmond), R Lynch (Cropredy), A Cook (Oxford & H), G Savin, I Hawtin (both Bicester & N Oxford), G Peddy (Hampstead), S Launder (Kingston Bagpuize).