A heavy band of weather swept across the region on Saturday 2nd May, meaning nearly all Southern League and Hampshire Cricket League fixtures fell victim to the conditions.

Not a complete washout, however. In a strange twist, all four South Wilts sides were either asked to bat or chose to bat first - giving plenty of players the chance to get valuable runs under their belts ahead of the weeks to come.

South Wilts 1st XI vs Hampshire Academy XI

The 1st XI posted a competitive 240 for 8, with Tom Cheater the standout performer, finishing unbeaten on 78 after a fine knock. He was well supported by contributions from James Degg and Matt Falconer.

Just as Hampshire began their reply, the rain arrived, bringing the game to an early end.

East Woodhay 1st XI v South Wilts 2nd XI

The 2nd XI travelled to East Woodhay, who included former England international Jamie Dalrymple in their ranks.

That didn’t deter South Wilts, who posted an imposing 261. Liam Vermeulen led the way at the top of the order with a well-made 61, while Will Musgrove returned to form with a superb unbeaten 86.

There was hope the game might continue, but the heavy rain left the pitch unplayable.

Amesbury 1st XI v South Wilts 3rd XI

The 3rd XI made the short trip to Amesbury and were building nicely towards a competitive total, reaching 168 for 5.

Henry Smith (37) and Oliver Wright (47) were the main contributors before the rain brought proceedings to a halt.

South Wilts 4th XI v Broadchalke 1st XI

At home, the 4th XI were also progressing well, sitting at 144 for 4 when the weather intervened.

Naimur Rahman impressed with a fine 62 in a promising start to the season.

While no results were possible, there were plenty of positives with the bat across all four sides.

Nothing gained, nothing lost - and it’s only week one.

Week 2 Fixtures – Saturday 9th May

1st XI ? @ Portsmouth 1st XI
2nd XI ? vs Winton 1st XI (Main Square)
3rd XI ? vs Over Wallop 1st XI (Academy Ground)
4th XI ? @ Winterbourne 1st XI