On the pitch, the Saturday 1st XI got their league campaign under way with a victory over Eversly.

Bowling first, it was the deceptive pace of skipper Sherry and the flight and guile of veteran performer Edwards that inflicted most of the damage.

Aided by some tight fielding, the visitors were restricted to just 104 from their maximum 52 overs.

In reply, it looked as though a small target would again prove tricky, as the Hill's antipodean connection failed to trouble the scorers in any major way. With Sanderson injured and Sherry also departing cheaply, Hill were soon displaying all too familiar signs of nerves.

However, Exworth (32 no), promoted to number three, dug in and was joined in a match-winning partnership by Fullicks (32). They took Hill to the verge of victory.

Eventually the home team walked away victorious for the loss of seven wickets and with four overs remaining.