Uphill Castle CC's victory against Ilminster Seconds was all about making a “statement” in their opening Somerset Division One game of the season last Saturday, according to captain Paddy Holyday.

The Castle won the toss and elected to field, a decision which was the correct one as Ilminster could only reach 88 runs.

Uphill reached their target in 26 overs to win by six wickets and begin life after relegation from the Premier last year in the best way possible.

And Holyday said he was delighted with how his side performed and there was a lot of good things to take from last weekend’s moving forward

“It was great to get the opening win, especially in the comfortable manner that we were able to,” he said.

“A lot of positives to take and build on as we progress over the next couple of weeks

“We wanted to make a statement and I think we did that. The side bowled very well as a collective and every single bowler looked dangerous with the ball in their hand.

“It was very pleasing to see the hard work in the nets come off on Saturday.”

Saturday’s victory also marked the return of George Chapman for the first time in two years after rupturing his Anterior Cruciate Ligament and missing all of last season.

Chapman scored six runs from 21 deliveries, including one four, before he was dismissed for LBW by the bowling of Dan Vining.

And Holyday said he was delighted to see Chapman back out playing again after his spell out.

He added: “It was brilliant to see George back on the pitch, he probably would’ve wanted to score some more runs but having not played for two season and it being a difficult batting pitch he’ll just appreciate some time in the middle.”

Holyday also praised the impact of their three new signings.

Finn Churchward, Himesha Halneththige and Chare Smith all made their bow, and all made contributions in the win last Saturday.

Both Halneththige and Smith took one wicket each after bowling Luke Theobald (18) and Michael McNee (4) respectively while Churchward finished as Uphill’s top scorer with 40 not from 66 deliveries, including five fours.

“Our debutants did really, really well,”

Holyday said.

“Smithy opened the bowling brilliantly and I’m sure on quicker pitches later in the season will pick up plenty of wickets.

“Himesha also looked very good with the ball and Finn was extremely comfortable in leading the side of the line for his 40 not out.”