Visits to Maybrook Park are always challenging with Barking a tough side to face on their own surface. Not even the most optimistic Harlow supporter would have predicted a dominate and comprehensive outcome achieved with over 20 overs to spare.

Barking won the toss and elected to bat on a wicket that looked like it might have the odd gremlin hidden within and so it proved.

The game was only 7 balls old when Harlow seamer Muhammed Umar Raza caused Barking opener Gosal to miscue a pull shot only for the catch to be shelled. The dropped chance appeared to inspire the batsmen and adversely affect Harlow as Barking rocketed to 54 without loss.

It was the ever reliable Joe Riddell who made the much needed breakthrough trapping home skipper Qureshi LBW for 26 with a slower ball.

However, it was the introduction of spinners Chris Whitworth and Jake Messenger that put Harlow on course for victory. Backed up by some excellent catching, most notably by Zabi Hakimi on three occasions and a terrific boundary grab by Oliver Allen, the spin pair snared seven wickets as the innings slumped to 128-8.

With Whitworth (4-55) and Messenger (3-46) having bowled their maximum overs the pressure was released as Barking’s tail enders frustrated the fielding team adding another 62 for the final two wickets with Bidwala making a very useful 39.

Harlow reverted to opening quick Riddell to save them from further toil in the blazing sun and he found two troubling yorkers to break the stumps and conclude the Barking innings for 190 all out.

At the half way point it looked as if Harlow had let Barking escape and reach a highly defendable target given the challenge of the wicket.

‘Be Positive’ was skipper Yeats’ instructions to his batsmen and he himself set the tone finding the boundary in the opening over of the Harlow reply.

When Chris Whitworth edged to second slip to depart for a duck fears must have been emerging in the Harlow camp of another lost opportunity to gain a crucial victory. They shouldn’t have worried.

Yeats was in sublime form showcasing his ability as he would not let any of the home bowlers settle. Backed up superbly by Zabi Hakimi (26) and then Abdul Munim (33*) Harlow led by Yeats hammered their way towards the target making light of any pitch challenges.

The Harlow captain reached yet another century with 18 fours and two maximums before he was dismissed seeking to end proceedings prior to the Champions League kick off. That honour was left to Gull Hassan who crashed 19 from just 5 deliveries and it was all over in just the 27th over.

This was a real step forward for Harlow who are now firmly back in the mix for promotion at this early stage of the season. The manner of the batting was especially rewarding and a template perhaps for future innings whilst the bowlers can be quietly content with their crucial efforts earlier in the game.

Pictured - Ben Yeats 110 from 78 balls