Three clubs from Division Three will again be affected by player involvement in the European Cup and Shield this weekend in week six of the All-Ireland League.

Last weekend Midleton struggled without New Zealander Jason Holland, who was on duty with Munster against Saracens. Despite the Cork club postponing their match against Carlow until Sunday in the hope that Holland might be released to play, the centre watched from the sidelines as his club side went down. Midleton are currently at the bottom of the table without a point.

This Saturday's fixtures will again pose the same problems for Midleton, Ballynahinch and Corinthians.

Ballynahinch have played all of their matches without Andy Ward while Holland is likely to be involved in Munster's game against Pontypridd at Sardis Road, ruling him out of Midleton's game against Bohemians. In addition, New Zealander Damon Ulrich, who doubles as scrum-half and coach for Midleton, is still unavailable because of a back problem.

Corinthians, however, have sought a postponement for their game against Ballynahinch. The need to field a full-strength side against the current league leaders is clearly their motive although Ballynahinch would gladly play if given the option.

Hooker Shane McDonald, who came on for Connacht last weekend against Bucharest, and winger Stephen McKenna are both again involved with the province against Ebbw Vale. Corinthians have a provisional date of April 15th for a possible rescheduling of the match.

Ballynahinch's mild anxiety comes from looking towards Saturday week when they face the formidable Carlow at Oak Park. They were hoping not to have a two-week gap between last weekend and the Carlow game.

In Division Four the main game is between third-placed newcomers Barnhall and second-placed Waterpark.