THE Dinas Powys Cricket Club 1st XI is still to launch its season after a second successive match was called off - this time due to a sodden Parc Bryn y Don. The 2nd XI's away fixture at Newbridge was also a victim of the weather.

Indeed, given last weekend's weather, it was a miracle any cricket was played, but, with the quick-drying Common missing most of Saturday's rain, the Thirds' match against Cynon Valley went ahead.

In the damp and gale force wind conditions, it was definitely a woolly jumper day and, with skipper Rob Tucker missing out on 'Fantasy Points' again by losing the toss for the second week running, Dinas were invited to demonstrate their batting skills. Step forward Nathan Piddock, a bowler looking for some confidence with his batting, and 14-year-old Jack Thomas, a regular Thirds opener. And, with everyone expecting to get a chance with the bat, given the conditions, the reality could not have been more different. The openers reached a record 214-run partnership, with young Jack achieving a maiden league 50 and eventually reaching 69, and Piddock, now known as "Lucky Pidds," managing an amazing, unbeaten 154. He was dropped more times than anchors in Cardiff Bay, with the wind and slippery underfoot conditions having a devastating effect on the catching skills of the visitors. The scorebook, however, reads 154 not out, including 17 boundaries and two sixes. And it's well done to a lucky and now brimming with confidence "Pidds," who has put an early and strong marker down for the best batting of the season award. The innings finished on 253 for one off 45 overs.

After the much-awaited Mrs Clogg tea of the usual high quality, wickets fell regularly, with only I Hames (78) showing stubborn resistance for the visitors. On his departure, the rest of the innings fell away and Cynon were all out for for 110, leaving DP victors by 143 runs.

This was a great win for the Thirds, who, with two wins from two games, now sit top of Division 7 of the WCCC.

The club would like to thank Vectos for their sponsorship and support of the club.

Forthcoming games: Thursday, May 15 - U15 v Llantwit (home, 6pm); Saturday, May 17 - 1st XI v Gymkhana (away), 2nd XI v Croesyceiliog (Bryn y Don, 1pm) and 3rd XI v St Fagans (away); Sunday, May 18 - v Barry West End (The Common, friendly, 2pm).