Captain Tim Piper recorded a fine half-century for Exmouth in a confident 171-run win over Bradninch as preparations for the new cricket season reach their climax.
Piper is a former skipper of Bradninch, who are a division below Exmouth in the Devon Cricket League structure, and he constructed a calm unbeaten 50 to set the tone for his side.
Taking just 60 balls to reach his mark, Piper retired after stroking eight fours in a confident innings, with fellow opener Louis Morrison bashing out an entertaining 39 at the other end.
The good performances continued through the Exmouth batting order, as Dan Pyle (41), Pete Turnbull (23), Hugo Hammond (37) and Fin Marks (48) all got to enjoy time in the middle ahead of the season-opener at home to Plymouth CC on May 1.
It was not just the batsmen who can take renewed belief into the new campaign, as opening bowler ripped through Bradninch with an impressive four-wicket haul.
The visitors never really looked like making a dent in the 279-7 total set by Exmouth in the 40 overs, as Turnbull trapped Josh Farley leg before and Mitchell Pugh was caught by Piper, also from the bowling of Turnbull.
Fin Marks knocked out the stumps to leave Bradninch on 23-3 after just six overs. Moments later, Turnbull made it 23-4 and Bradninch hobbled to 38-6 before rallying slightly to eventually finish all out for 108.
As well as Exmouth at home to Plymouth, the opening round of fixtures in the Premier Division will see Hatherleigh CC host Paignton CC, Bovey Tracey CC travel to Cornwood CC, Exeter CC are at home to Sandford CC and Heathcoat CC welcome Sidmouth CC.
The changing regulations mean that spectators can now attend cricket matches at Exmouth because of the public nature of the Maer Ground.
The club is now able to open the new Terrace Bar, along with the tea hut, so the perfect range of hot and cold refreshments.
While the clubhouse has to remain closed until May 17, there is a feeling that we might just get to enjoy a full summer of cricket.