TAKASHINGA derby takes centre stage with both teams vying for crucial points in the Vigne Cup at Takashinga Cricket Club on Saturday as they battle towards qualifying for the prestigious National Premier League this season.

Third-placed Takashinga 1, sitting on 60 points, face Takashinga 2, who trail by five points on the log standings.

Both teams are seeking to close the gap on log leaders Gladiators and SOGO Rangers, and a win for either side could push them into the title battle.

Takashinga 2 will need to improve from their previous derby encounter if they are to to win this game.

On the other hand, Takashinga 1 will be looking to push for a positive net run rate, which could be crucial in the latter stages of the competition.

With both teams entering their 12th game, Takashinga 1 has five wins under their belt, and they will be keen to maintain their advantage over their counterparts.

Takashinga 2, on the other hand, will be hungry for a win that could see them leapfrog their senior team and put pressure on the top two teams.

The derby will be a battle to claim the coveted points that could either let Takashinga 1 maintain their advantage, or let Takashinga 2 cause an upset that could bridge the gap.