LECHLADE are sweating over the fitness of strike bowler Chris Harwood ahead of their Premier One clash against Bridgwater tomorrow.

The former Worcestershire academy paceman pulled up in the middle of his fifth over in the Manor Ground’s team’s 64-run success at then league leaders Downend last weekend.

Opener Joe Breet, who was fielding in the slip cordon at the time, is hopeful that the American-born paceman will have recovered in time for tomorrow’s match.

“Chris was bowling and during one his deliveries, he hurt his side,” the former Lechlade captain said.

“I was in the slips and both (wicketkeeper) Brad (Dial) and myself told him if he had hurt himself not to risk doing any more damage.

“At the moment we don’t know if he will be able to play against Bridgwater. If he doesn’t, it will be a big loss for us.

“Chris has come to us this season and he has bowled really well and formed a good partnership with Liam (Smith).”

The victory for Lechlade, who are playing in the top flight of the West of England Premier League for the first time in their history this term, over Downend will have sent a message to the rest of the division.

While, Freddie Martin’s men are focused on retaining their Premier One status this term, Breet is confident that when his team are at full strength, they can compete with the best.

Lechlade will be hopeful of making it back-to-back wins against their visitors tomorrow, who suffered a five-wicket home loss to Potterne last Saturday.

“I had a quick look at the results and saw that they (Bridgwater) had lost,” Breet said. “Corsham also lost so it shows that anyone can beat anyone.

“We have to make sure that we are prepared properly and execute our plans and, hopefully, that should see us to a positive result.”