There were some big wins in the opening round of the Gisborne and District Cricket Association Johnstone Shield, while East Sunbury lost a thriller.
It was perfect weather for cricket on Saturday, meaning the season got off on time and there were plenty of highlights.
After originally having seven teams in the first fixture, the Johnstone Shield competition now has eight sides.
Sunbury Kangaroos, who dropped from McIntyre Cup, are now in the Johnstone Shield after originally being drawn in the Jensen Shield.
It means there are no longer any byes.
The Kangaroos got off to a confidence boosting win against Eynesbury on Saturday.
The Eagles decided to bat and never really got their innings going as they were bowled out for 113 in the 35th over.
Shaan Chahal top scored with 21 after coming in at number eight.
Simon Barry took three wickets for the Kangaroos.
The Kangaroos took their time in the chase but a win never looked in doubt as they finished 4-114 in the 38th over.
Captain Corey Woolley top scored with 34 not out.
Chahal and Josh Watson took two wickets each for the Eagles.
East Sunbury took its match with Kilmore deep, but fell just short in the end.
The Thunder made 9-156 from its overs with new captain-coach Justin Nelson top scoring with 34.
Liam Williams made 33 at the top of the order as the only other player to score more than 20.
At 2-118 Kilmore was in control of the run chase before losing three quick wickets.
Despite losing another one in sight of victory, it did enough to make 6-158 to get the win with one over remaining.
Nathan Dent and Nelson took two wickets each.
Diggers Rest kicked off its season in strong fashion with a big win against Harkness.
The Burras made 7-221 from their overs with Nathan Crosland top scoring with 65 at the top of the order.
Simarjeet Singh took three wickets for Harkness.
The Burras bowlers didn’t waste much time with the ball.
After Harkness was 1-27 it quickly crumbled and was all out for just 87 in the 22nd over.
Alex Hassett took 4-32 for the Burras off his nine overs.
Baljinder Singh top scored with just 19 for Harkness.
It was a tough return to the Johnstone Shield for Lancefield as it lost to Eastern Hill.
The two sides played each for the first time on Saturday having been in different divisions last season.
Eastern Hill made 7-189 from its 45 overs.
Patrick Shanahan took three wickets for the Tigers.
The Tigers got off to a solid start with the bat and were 1-69 before the wickets started to fall.
They finished 9-112. Lachlan Mitchell, top scored with 31 at the top of the order before having to retire hurt.
