DUMBLETON Dynamite are due to begin the defence of the Gloucestershire Vitality U19 T20 in partnership with Stuart Turner by travelling to Cheltenham on Monday for the opening match in this season’s competition.
The village club last year held off Bedminster Bashers by nine runs to win a thrilling final at Rockhampton.
And it proved to be the first part of a stunning double success as Dumbleton then went on to clinch the Marsh Commercial U16 T20 title, overcoming Thornbury Thunder, also at Rockhampton.
There are two competitions this summer at both age groups with Development events being introduced to encourage more clubs to take part in this exciting format.
A total of nine clubs have entered the main U19 cup with a further eight sides taking part in Development divisions.
And at U16 level, there are six entries in the main cup with eight more teams competing for honours at Development level.
All teams have the chance to play in coloured clothing while the format also features the use of pink balls and flashing bails.
Organiser Scott Tremain, the GCB’s Club Development Manager, said: “There’s been a tremendous amount of interest in both competitions and we can’t wait to get started, even though it looks as if we will be keeping our fingers crossed next week on the weather forecast!
“We receive great feedback from the players who love these T20 matches and all the thrills and spills that they bring.
“We’re also really pleased that so many clubs wanted to take part in the Development competitions, it’s a brilliant way for young players to test themselves and show off their skills.”
FORTHCOMING FIXTURES
Monday May 24
U19 North Division: Cheltenham v Dumbleton.
U19 North Development: Poulton v Stroud, Frampton-on-Severn v Kingsholm.
U16 North Division: Frocester v Cheltenham.
South Development: Bradley Stoke v Frenchay.
Tuesday May 25
U16 South Division: Thornbury v Bedminster.
Wednesday May 26
North Development: Bourton Vale v Hatherley & Reddings.
Friday May 28
U19 North Division: Frocester v Thornbury.