The Shepherd’s Cot club are eager to get on a winning run after defeating Hampstead last time out

Highgate have their belief back after a much-needed victory in the Middlesex County League Premier Division last weekend.

The strugglers entertained local rivals Hampstead at Shepherd’s Cot and managed to secure a fine six-wicket victory.

It was only Highgate’s second success of the Premier Division campaign, but followed a strong showing in a losing cause away to North Middlesex the week before.

Ahead of visiting second in the table Ealing on Saturday, the new boys are positive they can get out of the bottom two soon.

Johan de Silva said: “It was a great effort from the boys and we go into the remaining five games full of confidence after two great performances against some of the stronger sides in the division, Hampstead and North Middlesex.

“We are confident if we can keep this run of form up we will be able to get the wins required to secure our Premier status for the 2019 season.”

With skipper Muz Ali back after injury, Highgate won the toss and put Hampstead into bat first, but they made a terrific start.

Rob Keen (109) and Mubasher Hassan (54) put on exactly 100 for the first wicket and number four Matt Watson also added 50, but the visitors suffered a collapse from 236-2 to 310 all out.

Uzair Amjaid (3-90) impressed again, but he was overshadowed by Craig Gourlay, who claimed top figures of 6-101.

Highgate were quietly confident at the halfway point and it proved wise as they saw openers Hasnain Ali (47) and Jake Sharland (35) make a solid start which Liam Knight backed up with 44 batting at three.

Once he was dismissed with the score on 153-4, the hosts needed another partnership and they got it thanks to Zaakir Khawaja and captain Ali.

The skipper finished on 54 not out, but it was wicket-keeper Khawaja who really delivered to score an unbeaten 109 and see the new boys home.

“A win was required to keep alive our hopes of maintaining Premier status and it was really pleasing to seal a six-wicket win chasing 310 in a fantastic game of cricket,” said de Silva.

“Thanks must go to our match day sponsorship partner, Point5 Kitchens of Muswell Hill, who are contactable on 0208 883 5795, www.point5kitchens.co.uk, or info@point5kitchens.co.uk.”

Hampstead host Finchley on Saturday looking to get back on track after a narrow loss.