MARK Evans is the toast of Knighton-on-Teme Cricket Club after inspiring the villagers to an emphatic victory on their GB Liners Marches League Division Two debut.

Evans snapped up five wickets as the villagers thumped Llandrindod Wells by 103 runs in an encouraging curtain-raiser for Knighton.

But club spokesman Dave Pullen is expecting a much stiffer test this Saturday – Knighton travel to Weobley, who finished bottom of Division One last season.

“It was a great start to the season,” said Pullen, who missed the game because he was watching his beloved Wolverhampton Wanderers celebrate promotion from League One.

“We thought it would be a much tougher start for us but are delighted to get off to a winning start in a division which we have not played in before,” he said.

“Last season, we lost our first five matches in Division Two and then won our next 13, so hopefully, it won’t happen in reverse this summer.”

At Llandrindod Wells, the talented Sam Siviter led Knighton’s charge with the bat, striking an impressive 53 to help steer the visitors to 161-8 from 45 overs.

After the interval, Evans bagged five wickets and was supported by Jon Griffiths, who claimed three wickets, while Robbie Farrar and Adam Grosvenor also chipped in.

Dave Pullen said: “Sam Siviter only started with us last year and he’s showing a lot of promise and the younger players are a bit older and growing in confidence.”

Dave’ son, Dan, was also watching Wolves’ match last Saturday, but is available for this weekend’s game at Weobley.

“We have never played at Weobley but they were in Division One last season and we were in Division Three, so we are expecting a step up,” said Pullen.

“Dan is available for selection this weekend but the captain, Matt James, will be pleased with last Saturday’s team and might not change a winning squad.”