JOSH Smith is backing Aston Rowant’s results to improve over the coming weeks after a winless start to their Division 2 campaign.

Rowant have been hindered by unavailability so far this season.

They slipped to a four-wicket defeat at the hands of Dinton on the opening day, and last Saturday lost by 76 runs at home to Shipton-underWychwood.

Damian Shirazi returns to the top order as Rowant go in search of a first win at Finchampstead tomorrow.

The left-hander replaces the injured George Storton (ankle ligaments), while all-rounder Sasha Barras comes into the eleven for the unavailable Tom Needham.

Captain Smith believes his team will only improve with the duo back in the side.

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He said: “They are both first team regulars.

“Damian has played at a very high level and has performed in the Home Counties for years and years.

“Sasha is a fine leg spinner and a very good all-round cricketer.

“We will only get stronger from here in terms of availability.

“I am expecting an upward curve in performances and results.”

Smith continued: “To be honest, last week we were pretty poor against Shipton – we did not perform.

“They were better than us from start to finish.

“This weekend we look to get our first win on the board and then we try and pick up some momentum.”

Aston Rowant (v Finchampstead, away): Morgan, Shirazi, Cook, Matthews, Smith (capt), Watling, Dyer, Muttit, Barras, Quainton, Harris.