Uphill Castle CC captain Paddy Holyday said last weekend was “amazing” and is right up there with one of the best in their 130-year history.

Uphill secured promotion back to the Somerset Premier at the first attempt, after securing second place in Division One, last Saturday before beating Castle Cary to win the Somerset Cricket Foundation Intermediate Cup 24 hours later at Cooper Associates County Ground, the home of Somerset County Cricket Club.

“It was an amazing weekend for everyone involved with the club, probably one of if not the best in our 130 year anniversary,” Holyday said.

“A real reward for all our members, volunteers and players after a lot of hard work over a great season.”

Despite clinching promotion, Holyday said last Saturday’s final day defeat at Castle Cary was a “really poor performance”

Batting first, Castle Cary posted 242-7 to leave Uphill with a huge task. 

In reply, Uphill lost Finn Churchward and Tommi Davis in the first over with the score at 0-2. 

Jermaine Jones fought back well, hitting 46 from 60 balls, including five fours and one six, before both and George Cox departed the score stood at 72-4 and left Uphill in a precarious position.

Holyday, with 15 from 60 balls, and Chare Smith’s half-century helped the Castle past 100.

In the end Uphill finished on 166 all out but not without taking 15 points to finish the season with 489, six ahead of third placed Wells & Horrington.

“In reality, it was actually a really poor performance,” Holyday added. 

“We didn’t bowl well upfront and gave away far too many runs in the field. 

“We had the worst possible start with the bat finding ourself 0-2 after the first over. 

“Luckily the boys rebuilt and we got the bonus points needed to secure promotion.

Holyday said it was essential to get back to the Premier after last year’s relegation as part of their plan moving forward. 

“It was crucial for us to return to the Somerset Premier League at the first opportunity,” Holyday added.

“It was the first step in our long term plan and we will look to push on again next season. Playing at a higher level will enable us to attract new players who will help us get where we want to be.

“The boys have worked really hard this year after a tough season the year before. We deserved our promotion and I’m glad for everyone involved with the club that we got the job done.”