SKIPPER Craig Gibbens says the arrival of all-rounder Jif Wilkins’ new son is just the omen his side needs before their title decider at Lechlade.

Gibbens feared his side would have to play without him as the baby was due next weekend. But 6lb 10oz son Ollie arrived in the early hours of Sunday morning, meaning the new dad can play.

“We thought he was going to miss the Lechlade game so maybe that’s a good omen for us,” said Gibbens.

“Everybody’s known it was going to come down to this game because both sides have kept on winning.

“We’ve got to go there and win and we’re quietly confident. We have got a young side and it’s up to the older guys to make sure that they aren’t nervous and they play like they have been doing, because it’s going to be like a cup final.”

The league leaders warmed up for their big game with an eight wicket thrashing of Nationwide House on Saturday.

Nationwide won the toss and batted first but Nick Clarke top-scored with just 26. Goatacre’s Kevin Iles took three wickets while Brad Dawson and Jason Searle claimed two each, as the visitors were skittled for 149 in 44 overs.

Hampshire star Liam Dawson led the run chase as he smashed 97 from 80 balls in another cameo appearance for Gibbens side.

Luke Edwards chipped in with 33 as Goatacre cruised to 150-2 in the 27th over.