Spa men ready to begin campaign

After many weeks where it was feared that there may be no cricket this summer, competitive action will finally begin this weekend.

Teams from the Lincs ECB Premier have been split into two regional groups.

The North Division will see last year’s champions Woodhall joined by Lindum, Bracebridge Heath, Scunthorpe, Louth while the South Division consists of Sleaford, Bourne, Boston, Market Deeping and Grantham.

The American Conference-style format will see each team also face three opponents from the other regional division, with points earned added to their own league tally.

Matches are played to Royal London Club Championship rules.

This will mean 40 overs per side, a maximum of eight overs per bowler and three power plays.

Teams will earn four points for a win and two for a draw, with no batting or bowling bonuses.

The top two sides from each group will progress to the semi-final stage to be played in September.

Action will get underway at the mayflower at noon on Saturday.

Other fixtures will see Louth host Scunthorpe in the North Division while three inter-division contests will see Boston host Woodhall Spa, Lindum travel to Market Deeping and Bracebridge welcome the arrival of Grantham.

Cricket was originally pencilled in for August 1, but after new guidelines put in place by the Government and Enland and Wales Cricket Board, match action has already been allowed to take place.

The Second XI and Sunday side will begin their campaigns the following weekend, August 1-2.

Spectators are welcome to attand the club’s games at Jubilee Park.