THE 80th successive season of competition in respect of the Baker Cup will commence with a special challenge match between current Cup holders North Petherton and current Shield holders Ashbrittle, who meet for the Baker Cup Super Cup at Taunton CC on the afternoon of Sunday, April 30, writes competition secretary David Derrick

As a way of launching a real milestone of a season for the venerable old competition a match that may be the way that future competitions commence will be first up ahead of the second season in which there have been three strands of play available.

This game will start at 4.00pm and will follow the T20 format and will be played as the Baker Cup Final itself is played. It will be officiated by two umpires appointed by the Somerset Association of Cricket Officials.

After the presentation of trophies there will be complementary hospitality on offer for the competing sides, their supporters and the match officials who will be joined by members of the competition’s committee;the hospitality has been funded, in part, by Blackdown Financial and their generosity is noted with thanks.

The competition proper for 2017 begins with Baker Cup first round matches on the evening of Monday, May 8 (6.15pm start – 18 overs per side).