TARKA Ladies got the season off to a cracking start.

The U13 girls who come together from several clubs and train at North Devon, travelled away to Paignton to play in the first round of the National U13 hardball competition.

Team manager Jan Witheridge and Coach Mark Overton felt it was an outstanding team performance.

The spirit was very determined as the U13s dream of emulating the U15 Tarka Girls who were national champions last year.

Having lost the toss they went out to bat, opening with Emily Jakes and Flora Corbin.

There were contributions with the bat from Flora Corbin (30) and Grace Heard a quick 18 before being caught by a slower ball, as well as Olivia Churcher (38no).

Paignton girls fielded well but  as their confidence blossomed Tarka girls finished on 146 for four.

Charlotte Massey and Kate Harman put up a fight but the economy of Olivia Kingdon and the accurate bowling of Holly Presswell (2-19 off 4) and Churcher  (4-12), supported by Maisie Hart, Grace Heard and Flora Corbin who each took a wicket was too much for the Paignton girls.

Ruby Davis behind the stumps had a good solid game and the Tarka girls ended up winning by 100 runs.

The young ladies in the Women's leaguer played the first match of the season at home. North Devon Cricket Club, against Cornwood Ladies.

The batting performances were outstanding. Alli Kelly led the way with 128. Lydia Clements made 63 - her first 50-plus knock – and Lauren Bowden 37 not out.

Despite a brave fight back by Cornwood, and too many wides from the home side, Carmen Clements took four for 33, Lauren Bowden one for12 off 4, Lydia Clements one for ten and Ana Clements 1-22 off three meant the Tarka ladies won by 145 runs.