IT’S the final-day drama that North Middlesex were trying desperately to avoid: one last round of fixtures that will have a massive impact at both ends of the Premier Division table.

The good news for Jacob Miltz’s side is that their destiny is in their own hands. North Midd are five points above Ealing, who currently occupy the remaining relegation place.

Survival, though, won’t come easy as North Midd brace themselves for a high-stakes showdown at Hornsey, who go into their final home match knowing that if they can better Crouch End’s result they will be crowned Middlesex County League champions.

North Midd were denied the opportunity to secure their top-flight status on the weekend when their last home game of the season against Shepherd’s Bush was cancelled due to persistent downpours.

Their disappointment would have been eased, however, when they discovered that Ealing’s home match against Finchley went ahead using the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method, and that they were beaten by two wickets.

Elsewhere, in Division One, Hampstead’s tie at Harrow St Mary’s also fell victim to the foul weather. It’s a long shot, but Hampstead could still be promoted if they beat Barnes this weekend and results elsewhere go their way.