CHESNEY Hughes is set to boost Ilkeston Rutland's bid to bring the Derbyshire Premier Cup back to the county – after Nottinghamshire side Caythorpe carried it off over the border last year.

Another Notts side, Mansfield Hosiery Mills, stand in Ilkeston's way in Sunday's final at Ockbrook (11am).

Teenage Derbyshire star Hughes is available for Ilkeston and appears to be right back in form after a match-high 96 not out for the county in their victory over Gloucestershire this week.

Hughes' impact in county cricket has been bad news for Ilkeston – who signed the Anguillan all-rounder when it appeared he would be seen merely as "one for the future" with Derbyshire during 2010.

He has been able to play only seven league games for Ilkeston, although they have been enough for him to become a popular character at the Rutland Recreation Ground.

Ilkeston opening bowler Rob Green says Hughes' absence has hit their league hopes – but that, in turn, has made them more determined in the cup.

"We wanted to finish in the top four this year – that was with the idea of having Chesney available every week," said Green.

"That's not going to happen now. so I think it's very important to finish with a Derbyshire Cup winners' medal.

"There is plenty of confidence in the camp because we've played some good cricket for the majority of the season, especially in the cup.

"Has it been a good season? Only if we win on Sunday!"

Opponents Mansfield Hosiery Mills will think the same, as they sit in the lower half of the Nottinghamshire Premier League, and an even contest looks in prospect.

Apart from Hughes, the fine form of long-serving opening bat Dave Smit could be crucial for Ilkeston.

With six 50s and three centuries, Smit has just passed 1,000 runs for the season in league and cup, his third ton coming last Saturday.

"Smitty has made two brilliant 100s, in both the quarter and semi-finals of the cup," said Green.

"He's in fantastic touch and I wouldn't trade him for any player in the league."