CRICKET in Dinas Powys finally got under-way for 2020 after coronavirus had caused the suspension of all cricket activity so far this year.

A Gareth Storey (3rd team skip) XI took on an Alex Vowles (1st team skip) XI in an inter-club game.

With plenty of people available and wanting to play, it was a 12 a-side affair with close attentions being paid to the social distancing and safety requirements demanded by the return to cricket guidance.

Players turned up ready to play with changing rooms off-limits, and having brought their own tea as we are not yet allowed to organise communal teas.

Plenty of hand sanitiser and disinfectant wipes were in evidence, and markings on the ground and signage were used to remind players to keep 2 metres apart at all times.

On the field the score didn't really matter, as the main focus was getting back to playing cricket, albeit in slightly strange circumstances, where the ball couldn't be shined with spit or sweat, and had to be cleaned every 6 overs.

For the record Alex Vowles XI ran out winners, but the main "win" was simply getting back out on the pitch. With a restricted season the club is now looking to enjoy as many friendlies as they can over the coming weeks.

Thanks to everyone, but especially the committee for their hard work in getting the ground ship shape and the requisite things in place to allow us to return to cricket safely.