Biggins hits first hundred of season for GICC colours

ANDY BIGGINS has registered the first hundred of the season. Playing for a GICC team comprising mainly Optimists players the Guernsey captain hit 102 not out against touring Sparsholt 1st XI at the KGV.

'It was very scratchy to start,' he said.

'But then it got better. It was a good way to start the season.

'It was a very decent wicket. To get any games at all in April is a bonus, but to get two in a fortnight is brilliant.'

Groundsman Alan Hamilton, in his second season at the KGV, takes the credit for the good condition of the wicket. There has been two weekends of cricket already this season that possibly would not have taken place this early in the year were it not for his expertise.

Biggins and his opening partner Mark Clapham put on an opening stand of 96 and a cameo from Ian Damarell saw the GICC post 195 from their 40 overs.

Sparsholt never looked like threatening this total as some tight bowling from the GICC restricted them. The pick of the bowlers was Optimists opener Andre van Rooyen, who produced a fine display of swing bowling.

The South African took three wickets from the de Beauvoir end and Pessimists' new signing Mike Savage, who bowled a nagging line and length in his spell, ably assisted him.

Andre Bisson and Steve Birkett, the latter with his left arm spin, both turned in good figures as well.

The Hampshire league side ended up 40 runs short and their second team fared no better against Elizabeth College.

The college batted first and posted 182 for 7 off 40 overs at the Memorial Field. Peter Le Hegarat scored 67 not out and was supported by Jamie Nussbaumer, Chris Whitworth and Ross Allen who got 20 odd runs each.

Sparsholt were bowled out for 108 with three overs left.

The two Sparsholt teams' matches against Cobo and the GICC on the Sunday were abandoned due to rain.