Hampstead’s ladies secured the full 18 points in a confident win away against Chesham, leaving them second in Division A of the North London Women’s League.

Playing away on a spongy wicket in Buckinghamshire, the sun shone through and, losing the toss, Hampstead were put in to bat.

Opener Vicky Griffiths-Fisher made 32 and was replaced by Ange Bonora, who scored a six off her first ball, followed by a four, and ended up with 20 off nine deliveries.

Such positive batting continued down the order with Sian Culley (16), Ellie Mitchell (8), Harriet Millard (12) and Thea Graham (14) all contributing strongly as Hampstead batted out their 30 overs and reached a defendable 130.

Chesham were under pressure from the start of their innings, with Hampstead’s accurate bowling and tight fielding preventing runs flowing freely.

With all bowlers performing well and plenty of maiden overs between them, Hampstead ground out the victory by stifling Chesham’s run-rate, leaving the hosts 108-2 when their 30 overs elapsed.

Emma Edwards took 1-14 and Culley picked up 1-25, with Chloe Hole and skipper Lucy Horitz taking catches – but the victory was achieved through a team effort.

Horitz said: “I’m so pleased by the way we bounced back from last week, with our second win against Chesham. Everyone’s energy and enthusiasm was great!

“I feel that the squad is really gelling and things are looking good for Hampstead in the league.”

The Hampstead Ladies section isn’t only about winning league matches. The team also played a friendly against North London on the same day, with three debutants playing cricket for the first time ever.