LLANDUDNO geared up for their North Wales Cricket League Premier Division opener against St Asaph with an 87-run home loss to Bagnall Norton.

Big things are expected from Jack Rimmington’s side this summer as they look to get the title back from Menai Bridge, and they gained some much-needed minutes at the crease and in the field ahead of their first taste of competitive action.

The visitors set a target of 234 from 48 overs in the middle, with Lions’ bowler Oliver Hughes emerging as the standout performer on the day to end on 3-48 from a nine-over spell.

He was aided at the other end by Dan Jones and Andrew Christian, who took a pair of scalps apiece at the expense of 77 as Greg Willott top scoring with the bat thanks to a knock of 53.

The home side lost a number of key wickets early on, and despite an encouraging 48 from David Barlow it was not enough as they made 147 all out in reply.

Colwyn Bay begin their Liverpool and District Cricket League Premier Division campaign at Lytham, with the club looking to consolidate their position in one of the most competitive leagues anywhere in the country.

Overseas player Saliya Saman is sure to give them a huge lift, with the likes of Sion Morris, Adam Campion and veteran spinner Paul Jenkins set to play a determining role in any success that comes their way this season.

Mochdre make their return to Premier Division action at Connah’s Quay on Saturday, with Matty Humphreys’ men looking to avoid similar struggles that saw them relegated from the top flight in 2017.

Conwy have been significantly boosted ahead of their Division One opener at home to Llanrwst with the return of brother duo Shaun and Danny Davies.

The pair return to the club after a season at Colwyn Bay, with Shaun Davies producing a stunning knock to retire unbeaten on 86 in their six-wicket friendly defeat at St Asaph.