This season, Saracens Mavericks' consistency has been their Achilles heel and yet on Sunday afternoon, they were able to reach the heights that they needed to, for a second round in succession. Former England batter Ballance admitted using a "racial slur" towards Rafiq in a lengthy statement issued earlier this month, apologising but framing it as part of a long and deep friendship. "This is a delicate matter, as it involves allegations about Tim's behaviour while at another club. However, as we have said before, racism or bullying will not be tolerated here at Warwickshire, and we will not shirk from investigating these matters in full and taking action if necessary." In addition to deficiencies at both ends of the pitch, the departure of creative midfielder Emi Buendia - who joined Smith at Aston Villa in a £38m deal this summer - also appears to be a key factor behind the decline.