WHILE Australian No.3 Usman Khawaja was ripping England apart at the SCG on Saturday, the Singleton District Cricket Association resumed its 2017-18 competition.
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However, it was only the first-graders who returned to action at the weekend, via the T20 format.
Despite the steamy conditions, and sweltering 40-plus heat, Valley knocked over a gallant JPC at Howe Park while Creeks handed out a lesson to Muswellbrook at Victoria Park.
PCH/Glendon enjoyed a rest, courtesy of the bye.
Mick Taylor (40), Andrew Winsor (20) and Ben Stokes (19) guided JPC to 6-125, despite the bowling efforts of Liam Storey (3-33) and Glenn Russell (1-21).
But, Valley reached the target with eight wickets in hand.
Jacob Carey smashed an unbeaten 59 and was well-supported by Isaac Barry (39) and Simon White (22) as the team prevailed in the 18th over.
Gregg Dann (1-16) and Josh Harvey (1-28) starred with the ball for JPC.
At Muswellbrook, the hosts were on the receiving end of a Chad Solman onslaught.
The Creeks opener blasted 75, assisted by Jacob Hill (33 not out) and Chris Unicomb (25), as his side amassed 5-173.
Hayden Fox picked up 2-12 and Jeff Harris snared 1-27.
In reply, Muswellbrook’s campaign ended at 7-87.
Jarrod Watts top scored with 24, with Bumpy Crouch (23) and Josh Adams (18) also contributing.
Mark Unicomb was the destroyer, claiming 3-12, while Hill backed up his batting effort with 2-14.
The final round of the Hunter Valley competition, in John Bull Shield and Second Division, has been brought forward to Sunday, January 14.
Singleton will play Cessnock at home in both grades, with matches starting from 10am at Howe Park and Cook Park 3.