Shipton-under-Wychwood are hoping that new overseas recruit Gehan Perera will help them escape relegation in their first season in Home Counties Premier League Division 2 West.

Perera, an all-rounder who has played first-class cricket in Sri Lanka, made his debut in the drawn game with Gerrards Cross on Saturday.

The 31-year-old made 38, but contributed only two overs of off-spin as Shipton threw away a chance of victory with a late collapse.

Shipton face a stiffer test tomorrow when they entertain promotion-chasing Aston Rowant , as they bid to move away from the lower reaches of the table.

Their campaign has been hit by the departure of strike bowler Ryan Newhook, who according skipper Simon Hole, wanted to spend more time with his family.

“With George Seacole stepping up to the plate, our bowling has not been the problem,” said Hole.

“Our batsmen just don’t make enough runs. We seem to lose wickets in clusters. We need to show more nous when batting.” Shipton make just one change, with Steve Bates replacing Tim Senior.

Rowant, just 13 points behind leaders Dinton, also make one change, with Andrew Tolson coming in for Josh Smith.

“I fancy our chances of the title, as we have a much easier run-in than Dinton,” said skipper Wesley Morrick.

Thame Town skipper Mike Higgs is away, so Sam Lachlan will lead the side away to Dinton.

James Neilson returns for Thame, who are in the bottom two.