While every other game was washed out, the TCL premier league’s third-ranked side found a way to get a game in at home despite two delays, and jumped into second spot with a seven-wicket victory.

Chasing the Durhams’ 166, skipper James Whiteley led from the front with a marvellous 76 not out, while Ronnie Mathew chipped in with 39.

Matthew Wells (2-20) made early inroads with the wickets of John McCoy and Daniel Kirk, but a 98-run third-wicket stand did the damage.

By the time Caleb Lawson (14 not out) pulled a full toss through square-leg to ice the match with 19 balls to spare, the celebrations had already begun at Max Fry Hall. 

“The result was fantastic,” Whiteley said.

“I’m really proud of how they stuck to their guns and were patient and in the end we did it with a few overs to go.

“It was pretty interesting batting in a big metal helmet when there’s lightning going around – I wasn’t real sad to come off but we’re happy with the result now.”

Past and present players aged 13 to 90 joined in the weekend celebrations.

“We’ve had people fly in from everywhere – from Western Australia, from Queensland, so it’s a good group of guys,” Whiteley said.

“The fact the people are willing to travel like that when they’ve got lives and families says a bit.

“I think that’s a testament to the strength of the club, and since I’ve been here I’ve only seen positives.”