THE 2020 cricket season finally arrived for the players of Sully Centurions when they were able to host a friendly match at Burnham Avenue.

Strict social distancing and hygiene requirements were adhered to, including regular breaks for handwashing.

Both teams were happy just to be back on the pitch.

A mixed side, including 1st and 2nd XI regulars faced visitors Bay Dragons, from Cardiff. Batting first, openers Rhett Jones and Jason Hicks put on 38 for the first wicket, before Hicks was trapped LBW by Mobashir.

Then Gethin Hicks was caught behind for 10, off the bowling of Fogg, with the score on 76.

However, this brought Callum Thomas to the crease, and along with skipper Rhett Jones, he put on 60 for the third wicket.

Jones was eventually out for 72, with the score on 136. Another half century partnership, this time between Thomas and Shae Ellis (24) took the score along to 186 for 4.

This was the last wicket to fall, as Thomas (87 not out) and Lloyd Bruce (50 not out) took the score on to 291 for 4 at the end of the innings.

The visitors’ opening pair took the score along to 27 before Fawad had Zafar LBW for 7. Saud and Abdul added another 25 runs then Raja took the first of his 4 wickets, taking the wicket of Abdul, who was caught for 7.

Then a flurry of wickets ripped the Dragons’ batting apart, as the next seven wickets fell for just 15 runs.

A spirited last wicket stand of 18 between Fogg and Taj took the score to 86 before Fogg was out. Only two players got into double figures, Fogg (14) and Abdul (30).

Bowling honours went to new boys Raja (4-6) and Josh Marsh (2-4) with Jake Griffett (3-20) and Fawad (1-26) bagging the remaining wickets.

Sully Centurions CC would like to thank the players of both sides, the umpires and spectators for ensuring that the game could be played, by everyone adhering to the current Covid 19 requirements.

Sully Centurions 291-4 Bay Dragons 86 all out

It is hoped that at least one, perhaps two, friendly matches will be arranged for next week.

Opponents are likely to be Barry Wanderers (Sat) and Llandaff (Sun). All players are asked to give their availability as soon as possible.