ON A DAY WHEN it didn't look like much cricket would be played anywhere, Dinas Powys firsts travelled to Monmouth, always a tricky encounter. After winning the toss and electing to bat, Dinas made steady if unspectacular progress. Most batters got starts, but no one went on to get a big score. However, the combination of most people getting some runs on the board meant when the Villagers lost their last wicket in the final over, they'd scored 195, with Connor Hetherton and Ryan Todd both top scoring with 31 apiece.

Monmouth's innings took on a similar pattern with wickets falling at regular intervals, and it was a relief when Lloyd DiMauro's spin accounted for the dangerous Josh Grey. With things getting tight towards the ends, Dinas held their nerve, and finally bowled Monmouth out for 183 with five balls to spare collecting a precious 19 points.

At Bryn-y-Don the seconds faced Malpas in a match reduced to 20 overs due to rain after a lengthy delayed start. It was testament to both sides that they played at all with persistent muzzle in the air, but the principle of getting the game on should be applauded. Bowling after winning the toss, Dinas restricted Malpas to 136-4 thanks to tight seam bowling from Richard Morgan (1-18) and Rhys Bradley (1-18) both taking a wicket each. The highlight of the innings a dramatic run out by wicketkeeper Miles Wilton. Aggressive in their pursuit, Dinas found themselves needing six off the last over thanks to boundary hitting Jeff Mitchell (21) and Ali Choudary (58*). Alas it was not to be as Dinas failed to score the three runs needed for victory off the last ball.

The thirds were not so lucky as their match v Sully Spartans at Wenvoe was called off due to the weather.

On Friday Dinas hosted a marvellous event with over 100 children aged five to eight from three clubs (Dinas Powys CC, Penarth CC and Barry Athletic CC) attending a superb night of cricket fun and games on the common to celebrate a hugely successful All Stars Cricket programme that's been run this year.

Bro Radio were in attendance and a fantastic evening was had by all.

Next Saturday (July 22), the firsts are at home to Pontymister & Crosskeys (Bryn y Don 1pm), the seconds away v Croesyceiliog and the thirds at home v Pontllanfraith (Common 1pm)