The ECB are to-night clear leaders of the championships, both Scotland and the holders Holland have returned to winning ways and now only Denmark have yet to break their ÔduckÕ in Division 1.

Germany and Portugal share top billing in Division 2 with a one hundred per cent record. The Germans took only three hours to defeat France by seven wickets and Portugal came out on top against Gibraltar. Austria remain without a point.

There was little drama for ECB and Scotland after the excitements of yesterday, both scoring comfortable victories.

The English had a 62 run win over the Italians despite an undefeated 71 by Samantha Ketipe, with Steven Chapman hitting a half century and Scotland cruised to a decisive eight wicket victory over Ireland with Greig Williamson hitting 54 in 54 balls.

But top score of the day Ð the top score of the tournament so far Ð belonged to HollandÕs Luuk van Troost who fell just four short of his century as his side powered its way to a 73-run success over Denmark . But the Danes made a fight of it with brothers Morten and Lars Hedegaard scoring half centuries and sharing in a stand of over 90.

Lowest score of the day was inflicted on France by Germany. Farooq Ahmed and Renald Buss shared six wickets for very few as the French crumbled for a mere 64.

And Division 2 also saw the dayÕs highest score - 253 for 5- as AustriaÕs bowlers again suffered, this timeat the hands of the Israelis. Hershel Gutman got 82, Isaac Massil 67. That took Germany to the top of the table to be joined by Portugal by virtue of a 32 run win over Gibraltar.