HEREFORDSHIRE begin their home Unicorns Minor Counties Knockout Cup programme at Eastnor on Sunday looking to repeat last season's trophy-winning victory.

The county side entertain Staffordshire whom they saw off by 56 runs in the final at Wormsley.

But although Herefordshire came out on top last August, they know they will have their work cut out as it was Staffordshire who were the victors when they sides met in the group stages of last season's competition.

Herefordshire were impressive in seeing off Wales MC by nine wickets at Newport in their opening encounter with skipper Matt Pardoe (61 not out) and Liam Gwynne (56) scoring half-centuries.

But Staffordshire have also been in form, winning both of their first two matches - an eight-wicket victory against Shropshire and a thrilling two-wicket success against Wales MC with just three balls to spare last Sunday.

Staffordshire are likely to be led by former Worcestershire, Leicestershire and Gloucestershire all-rounder Kadeer Ali, the brother of England star Moeen Ali, with former Herefordshire player Michael Hill also set to be included.

Herefordshire will have to make at least one change with Chris Whittock, a member of last season's trophy-winning squad unavailable.

But teenage wicket-keeper Ian Bullock and his Brockhampton team-mate Joe Crichard are set to retain their places after being part of winning team at Newport.