Bermuda: Cleon Scotland's mid-term report

Bermuda's premier league has reached its mid-point and champions Southampton Rangers find themselves on the same path as they were last year. Having lost their opening match again, Rangers have reeled off six wins in a row and are on a collision course with another team who was unbeaten this same time last year Western Stars.

Stars captain Albert Steede is in unbelievable form, with four centuries and two fifties from only eleven innings. His leadership has already helped Stars pick up the two trophies already on offer. He was in similar form last year when he scored a century against Rangers only to see them overtake a mammoth 280-odd and never look back on the way to the title.

This year's match-up may have the same importance if Rangers defeat a weakened St. George's and Stars sweep Police (having beaten them in other competitions twice already). The premier league first tie-breaker rule is head-to-head and Rangers realize how vital the match will be with Stars having an easier schedule to end the season.

Of the chasing pack, Somerset Cricket Club have gone into free-fall mode after a promising start. They lie in eighth place following a deflating loss to Devonshire Recreation Club after posting 312-7. St. David's, having lost to their arch-rivals St. George's and leaders Stars are still in with a shout but will have to rely on a loss of form from both teams. With the brilliant Glenn Blakeney and Clay Smith (back from suspension), they will have the talent to take advantage of any slip-up.

All matches in Bermuda's premier league are 50 overs with each team playing the other once.

Premier League Statistical Leaders (up to 7 July 2000)
Batting Average: Albert Steede (Western Stars) 100.25
Most Runs: Albert Steede (Western Stars) 802
Highest Score: Keith Wainwright (Southampton Rangers) 225* vs Social Club
Bowling Average: Courtney Trott (Cleveland) 10.22
Most Wickets: Herbie Bascome (St. George's), Hasan Durham (Western Stars) 24
Best Bowling: Ryan Belboda (Southampton Rangers) 6-15 v Social Club
Most Catches (including wicket-keepers): Dean Minors (St. George's), Justin Robinson (Western Stars), Andrew Rollins (Police) 11