OF greatest importance, arguably, was the Third XI fixture away to Ilford. Starting the day top of the table with Upminster hot on their heels, Harlow knew two wins would seal a second consecutive Third XI Premier League title.

Alas, yet again in this miserable season of unseasonable precipitation the rain was to intervene with Harlow superbly placed with Ilford in huge trouble at 80-6. Tyler Dobson had claimed three wickets with a brace for Sunny Ali and one for Abid Shinwari with Harlow dominant.

The conditions were such that after the heavy down pour no further play was possible and the game was abandoned. Sadly, Upminster completed their game and won leaving Harlow now in second place and needing Upminster to falter on the final day of the season.

Better new from the First XI who comfortably defeated bottom of the table Ardleigh Green by 6 wickets. Not much detail available from this game yet but Muhammed Umar Raza took 4 wickets on his debut at this level.

The Second XI also hit weather issues but thanks to 45* from John Perry were able to chase down a revised target under DLS to claim the win. Earlier the entire bowling unit had done very well with Abubaker Rafiq and Jake Hikmatshah excellent with the new ball.

The Fourth XI also had their game abandoned as the rain interrupted Belhus charge to a very imposing total batting first.

A gallant effort from the 5th XI ended in defeat despite three wickets for Emilia Allen.