Glenrothes 2nd XI opened their SPCU Division 3 season with a well‑earned 42‑run victory over newcomers Clackmannanshire 2nd XI, overcoming cold April conditions and a tricky surface to start the campaign on a high.

Clacks won the toss and, unsurprisingly on a soft pitch with plenty of early-season moisture, chose to bowl first. Glenrothes were made to work hard, but opener Ikram Ullah started the innings superbly with a hard-hitting 57, setting the platform for a competitive total. Support came from Ben Krzyzanowski (25) and Basil Varghese (18), with useful contributions from others helping Glens reach 181 for 9 from their 40 overs.

Clackmannanshire’s bowlers stuck to their task admirably. Joe Smith led the way with a tidy three‑wicket haul, while Tom Hutchinson bowled better than his two wickets suggested.

Teas made their long‑awaited seasonal return - a solid 7/10, though leaning a little heavily toward the sweet side. A promising start nonetheless.

Defending 181, Glenrothes opened with disciplined bowling to restrict Clacks to 43 for 2 at drinks, keeping the run rate in check. However, the momentum shifted dramatically as Zaid Shafique and Vasi Khan launched a counter‑attack, punishing anything loose and capitalising on a few fumbles and dropped chances in the field.

The breakthrough came from Ikram Ullah, who bowled Khan for 32 to halt the charge. Soon after, Shafique -looking dangerous on 49 - was brilliantly run out by young Archie Taylor, a key moment that swung the game back Glenrothes’ way.

From there, the bowlers tightened the screws. Kevin Le Roux, Ben Krzyzanowski, and Ikram Ullah each claimed two wickets, while sharp fielding produced run‑outs for Taylor, Joe Myles, and Rahman Tawheedi. With Clacks chasing a late batting bonus point, Tawheedi struck again with a last‑ball run‑out to end the innings at 149 all out.

The match was played in excellent spirits throughout, with Clackmannanshire 2nd XI proving themselves a strong and friendly addition to the SPCU family. Glenrothes take the 25 points - and plenty of positives - into the weeks ahead, while wishing Clacks all the best for the rest of their debut season.

Scorecard available on PlayHQ.