Farley opened the season with defeat at home to a strong Basingstoke and North Hants third team, writes Paul Roberts.

Farley’s opening attack, Marc and Sam Burton, began promisingly after the visitors had opted to bat, with Sam claiming the first scalp of the season through a one-handed Archie Ayling catch.

But Basingstoke fought through the sticky start and several half-chances, with the experienced Chris Froud taking full advantage.

He reached his ton, as Farley’s lack of match fitness began to show. Basingstoke finished on 245-5.

Farley’s response never really got going. Iain De Weymarn looked a class apart, carrying his bat for 60, as Farley were all out for 113.

It was better news for the club’s second team, who claimed a fine win at Longparish thirds. While the Hurstbourne Priors ground offered a picturesque setting, the nearby river ensured a damp track.

Farley battled to 122-7 off their 40 overs, with five batters into double figures but Harry Jenkins top scoring on 21.

Salisbury Journal: Bikash RanaBikash Rana

However, the bowling attack put on a fantastic show, with Bikash Rana tearing through the top order to claim 4-13, including a hat-trick - the ball rolling back teasingly off the bat to knock the bails off for the third victim.

Jake Hand and Mo Shaik grabbed three apiece, as Longparish were bundled out for 75.