Buxton get off to a flyer in DCCL

Slater himself played a key role as his side overcame Sawley & Long Eaton by six wickets, hitting a top score of 70.

He said: “We’re really happy to get a convincing win in the first game of the season.

"From start to finish there was a real determination to get the result and get the season off to a great start.

"The focus now moves on to next week. We have got to make sure we prepare well and carry on building momentum into the new season.”

Buxton were asked to bowl on a good batting track. After a strong start from the hosts, a double bowling change introduced Fran Slater and Nick Allen to the action and with some very tight bowling and good fielding, Buxton started to pile on the pressure.

This continued on for the rest of the innings with some great bowling from Tom Griffin taking key wickets at important times. Sawley finished 159-9 after their 45 overs. Andrew Slater took 1-21, Fran Slater 2-14, Allen 2-30 and Griffin 4-41

In reply, Buxton lost three early wickets for just 24 runs, bringing Andrew Slater and Matt Whitehouse to the crease. They took control of the innings with some fantastic timing and big power hitting.

Buxton soon found themselves in a winning position, Slater finishing with 70 and Whitehouse 64 not out.

Buxton play Holmewood CC at the Park this weekend.

Buxton seconds fell to defeat at home to Nutbrook, while the thirds lost to Clowne fourths by ten wickets.