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Machen’s two league teams turned up the heat on their opponents with convincing wins on a scorching weekend.

The first XI are now 45 points clear at the top of South East Wales division four with six matches to go after defeating Llandaff by 50 runs at home.

The highlight of the weekend was a typically aggressive 114 from all-rounder Mike Fussell, hitting 16 fours and two sixes as he pulled the innings round from a shaky start. 

He added 125 for the fifth wicket with Jon Toghill (49) while Samir Khan chipped in a quickfire 33 not out to take Machen to 275-6 in 40 overs.

Llandaff made a respectable reply but were bowled out for 225 with three wickets apiece for Ahsan Naqash and Arbab Haroon; the division’s top wicket-taker, as the Buzzards collected the maximum 20 points again.

The second XI overcame the loss of three key regulars to Covid to record a comfortable 93-run win away to St Fagans after posting a formidable 315-6.

Consistent opener Dean Starling hit 53 while Wales over 60s player Nick Hatton, in at three, batted through most of the innings for a mature and hard-earned 87 not out as the temperatures soared.  

Fireworks at the other end were provided by Owen Morgan (49) and Dan Leonard who hit a couple of late sixes to reach his first ever 50, not out.

Acting captain Delme Smith then took 5-25 in early and late spells as St Fagans were bowled out in their last over for 222, Ben Owen taking three fine catches in the outfield, with Machen winning by 93 runs.

The club also played its first Sunday friendly of the season to cater for increased demand, giving a chance to three debutants and several squad players in a six-run defeat at Rogerstone Welfare.

The home side’s 171-4 in 30 overs proved just beyond Machen as they finished on 165-9 despite 51 not out from Jonny Cross and 47 from Dan Leonard.

But Machen captain Clive Fussell, the club’s vice-chairman, managed the game well to give everyone an opportunity including youngest member Will Owen, who stood out in the field.

“A big thank you to everyone who played in tough conditions, the future is bright”, said Fussell.

If current numbers continue, the club will aim to re-establish a third eleven provided a suitable venue can be found.

Meanwhile long-serving Machen spin bowler Robin Jones had the honour of leading Wales in their first ever over 70s international against England at Stourport, near Worcester, though England’s batting proved too powerful as the home side were decisive winners.