MISSING at least six regular players, Barry Athletic Cricket Club 1st XI were up against it from the start of Saturday's league clash at Pontymister.

Winning the toss, Barry captain John Gee asked the home side to bat and claimed the first wicket when Dan Jones was caught at slip in the third over with the score on seven. But that was the only early success on what was to be a high-scoring day for the Gwent side as they rattled up 325 for eight in their 50 overs. The pick of the batters was Salman (82 in 39 balls), although he looked to have been caught behind on 29 but was given not out, and Ghori (60). Top bowlers were Usswald (3-61) and Gee (2-46). The ever reliable Peter Hellyar ended with nought for 23 from10 overs, three of which were maidens.

In reply, Barry made a good start, with Smith and Murphy putting on 46 for the first wicket before the former went for 25 with the score on 46. Debutant Mike Provis produced some majestic strokes in a 21-ball 21 and, although Barry were never in with a chance of getting the runs, there were some fine knocks from Murphy (26), top scoring Dafydd Frost (27) and Usswald and Hellyar (both 19no). Barry were eventually well short on 191 for eight in their 50 overs.

There was a similar story for Barry’s 2nd XI as Pontymister, put into bat, reached 180 for seven in their 45 overs, with Sharratt top scoring with 60. Kieron Ferriday was the pick of the bowlers with two for 40.

In reply, Barry were 128 all out, with best contributions from Lane (29) and Anwar (20).

This weekend Barry Firsts make the short trip to Sully for a local derby, while the Seconds entertain the village side. The Thirds travel to Tondu on Sunday.

Junior training is on a Thursday (6-7pm); youngsters aged seven to 15 welcome.

With the support of sponsors Waitrose, Barry Athletic opens its doors for a community day on Saturday, August 16. As part of the ECB "Get Involved in Cricket" initiative, it is an ideal opportunity for new and old members and current and future sponsors to see what goes on at the Island Oval. The event will conclude with an evening race night.