Calabar High and Campion College will launch their battle for the urban area ISSA First Global Bank 'A' League cricket title at Melbourne Oval today, beginning at 10 a.m.

By virtue of reaching the final, both have qualified for the semi-finals of the more prestigious Grace Shield. The green-and-black standard bearers are seeking their first Under-19 cricket title in four years and Campion their first in two decades.

Calabar's last cricket crown was the Jamaica International Insurance Company Knockout, formerly the Tappin Cup, in 2005, while Campion, under the guidance of left-arm orthodox spinner Carlton Carter, who represented Jamaica at the senior level at age 16, last won in 1989.

"Our initial aim was to qualify for the final and, as such, gain promotion to the Grace Shield next year. But now that we are in the finals we want to win," said Calabar's coach, Lewin Williams.

Close contest expected

Meanwhile, Leon Campbell, the coach of Campion, expects a close contest.

"Two good teams are in the final, but we want to win this one and will be going all out," he said.

Calabar scored an outright win over St George's College in the semis, while Campion got the better of Pembroke Hall on first innings.

The final will be played over two innings, but if the game is not completed in two days, the winner on first innings will be crowned champions.