It was a mixed bag of results as Ammanford Cricket Club began its 2024 season.

The first side lost the battle against Newport in their Premier One kick-off, whilst the second XI recorded a convincing victory against Port Talbot.

The first match resulted in a 77-run loss to Newport, despite a commendable effort from the team.

Fielding first, a reduced bowling team was deftly captained by Rhys Davies, and testified by exemplary fielding.

New recruit Stephan Muller from Australia shone with a neat run-out and two skilfully caught balls.

Young spinner, Cian Roach, also proved his worth, bowling a stalwart two for 32 under pressure, with both Rhys and Owen Davies also getting a couple.

Newport was restricted to a total of 222 with an outstanding contribution of 75 by Morgan Bevans.

Despite a promising start, losing opener Gruffudd Owen early didn't signal well for Ammanford who were then pinned on 144.

Notably, Rhodri Davies showed fortitude returning to bat at number 11 after feeling unwell earlier.

In the second XI, Ammanford clinched an impressive seven-wicket victory against Port Talbot Town at the Park.

Port Talbot batted first and managed a respectable score of 222 before an exit after 44 overs.

Simon Crump was their top scorer with 80.

Ammanford's Llyr Morgan led the bowling front with an exceptional four for 39, supported by Alun Evans with three for 38.

Their excellent performance enabled Ammanford to exceed Port Talbot's total with seven wickets and 17 overs to spare.

Standout performances came from Craig Maloney, who notched an unbeaten 66, and Alun Evans, making his second XI debut, with a score of 51.

Meanwhile, Ammanford's third XI endured a six-wicket defeat against Llandarcy at Pontardawe Rec.

Despite a commendable half-century partnership between John Jones (41) and Toby Davies (31), Llandarcy had little trouble surpassing the total of 160 with eight overs to spare, largely credited to Christoffel Vermaak (60) and Iain Burns (55).

The eventful weekend sets the stage for an anticipated face-off against rivals Pontarddulais and the Welsh Cup fixture against Felinfoel next weekend at the Park.

In conclusion, the first wave of matches brought triumph, defeat, and commendable performances.