STUART Cassidy, arguably the best scrum half in the county, could find himself playing out of position for Bicester in their Morrells Oxfordshire Cup rugby quarter-final at home to Chipping Norton on Sunday (2.30).

Cassidy, who has just returned after nearly 12 months out with a serious shoulder injury, is keen to play at scrum half to boost his claims to play for Oxon in the County Championship at the end of the season.

But the man in occupation at the base of the Bicester scrum is Adrian 'AJ' Field, who has probably been the club's best player this season.

Cassidy's versatility could mean he plays at fly half against Chippy in what could be closest tie of the day.

The West Oxfordshire side have the superior record in the Southern Counties North league this season, but Bicester's strong cup traditions and home advantage could tip the scales in their favour.

As a build-up for the game, Bicester have had three recent training sessions with former Scotland lock Bill Cutherbertson, so they are well prepared.

Stuart Cassidy's brother, Darren, who left Bicester early this season, will captain Henley Reserves in their quarter-final tie at Banbury.

The Henley side will include some players who have played in league matches for the Hawks.

First-team skipper Mat Maudsley has been named in the squad.

Banbury have former Oxford coach Martin Hobley back at prop, and have retained Michael Thomas at full back and Stuart Viggers on the wing.

Guy Stanton and Simon Williams, have recovered from injury and are both on the bench.

Flanker Jonathan Newman makes a welcome return to the Oxford Harlequins' squad after injury for the tie against Southern Counties North rivals Wallingford at Marston Ferry Road.

Hooker Mark Samson looks as if he will make his first-team debut for Quins, who also welcome back prop Paul DeLange after injury.

Quins are holding a vice-presidents lunch before the game.

Gary Few and Jon Brooks are still injured and miss Chinnor's tie away to Bucks & Oxon Division 1 pacesetters Witney.

Story date: Friday 19 February

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.