Wellington made their opening pre-season game count as they batted well as a unit to chase down 233 in 36.2 overs at Somerset League Premier Division side Minehead last Saturday when they replaced scheduled opposition Uphill Castle.

On an artificial pitch Wellington were bowling first and saw Ian Hewson was in good form with the new ball as he took the first wicket of the new season for the Red and Blacks when be bowled Martin on his way to taking 2-16 in seven good overs of medium paced seam.

Arron Campbell’s eight over stint of off spin was controlled too as some of the Wellington attack found the surface challenging with no spiked shoes allowed and the change from grass to plastic making for an odd feeling.

Buchanan with 55 plus Bowditch and Rice with 49 each were the main part of the Minehead total as Paul Short and Nick Crossing took a wicket each in a total of 232-7.

Arron Campbell and Wellington’s overseas player for 2016 Zandre Swartz opened up for the Red and Blacks and both got away well as they added 58 opening wicket runs – Campbell struck a six and made it to 25 before he was caught.

Swartz hit a cool 62 with eight fours and four sixes as he showed the batting prowess that interested Wellington in signing him and has brought him first class honours back home – the opening showing with both bat and behind the sticks was good.

After Alex Sparks was third out for 26 Wellington needed just under 100 to win and this was achieved by a classy knock from Paul Short who made 66no and was well aided by Aks Latifi, Rob Moysey and Jack Beal’s excellent late 23no as the total was passed with 22 balls to spare.

A good game for all who took part and thanks are expressed to Minehead CC for arranging this game at short notice.