Twickenham’s bid to better last season’s Middlesex County League Premier Division runners-up finish is floundering.

Ts’ stellar batting line-up – with the exception of Ashley Gray’s unbeaten 47 – failed to fire as Hampstead’s 259 for nine on Saturday proved beyond skipper Carlos Nunes’ men.

Neighbours Richmond – on the other hand – over came Finchley’s 276 for seven with one over and five wickets to spare thanks to Andrew Lowe’s stunning 135 not out from 115 balls.

Defending champions Teddington suffered a third straight defeat at league new boys Indian Gymkhana, who easily chased 209 to win.

Richmond are level on points with league leaders Ealing, while Twickenham are 19 points off the pace.

Teddington are rock bottom – nine points off safety.