Despite narrowly losing at Cheshire on Sunday, Beds are already assured of a place in the last eight with their quarter-final scheduled for Sunday, June 14.

Before then, however, attention will turn to the start of the county's MCCA Championship campaign.

Jon Walford's side travel to the Ransomes ground in Ipswich on Sunday for their opening three-day encounter against Suffolk with high expectations after such a positive one-day programme.

With just six fixtures, a strong start is important, a fact recognised by all-rounder Andy Roberts who said: "Your first game is so crucial. If you get a decent start then you can do well. It'll be hard work as it always is."

The weather has proved to be a thorn in the county's side in previous seasons and they will be hoping that it is set fair for the summer.

Beds, under the leadership of James Knott, had a solid enough 2008, finishing fifth in the Eastern Division with two wins from their six outings.

That record, though, will have to be significantly bettered if they are to challenge for a place in the Championship final in September.

And Roberts believes that, if they can consistently field a competitive XI, then they are in with a shout.

He added: "If people are available then it's fine, but availability makes a massive difference.

"Our batting should be fine and we should be able to put together some decent scores. Most sides will have a couple of good players.

"It's the bowling that can sometimes be a struggle."

Success in two innings cricket more than often depends on bowling sides out and Beds could travel to Suffolk with a depleted attack.

Both Will Sneath and Chris Goode are unavailable due to work commitments and Marc Jackson, who missed the trip to Cheshire through injury, will need to prove his fitness.

Spin shouldn't be a problem with Tom Brett, Dan Bendon and Roberts expected to feature and the batting, with the likes of Knott, Walford and Bendon, should take care of itself.

Following the Suffolk clash, Beds' home bow is on June 21 when Northumberland visit Wardown Park.