Jonathan Roberts bagged five wickets as Monmouth Cricket Club made a winning return to Welsh competitive league action.

After being dismissed for just 91, Roberts (five for 21) and stand-in skipper Dan Risk (three for 23) hit back for Monmouth to skittle out Cardiff Gymkhana for 54 in last Saturday's (12th May) clash.

It was a remarkable 37-run triumph for Monmouth who finally opened their Thomas, Carroll Glamorgan and Monmouthshire League Division Three season.

The fixture marked Monmouth's return to Welsh cricket for the first time since 1992, following their move from the Worcestershire County League.

Monmouth make their first trip to Lisvane this Saturday (19th May) and, on Sunday, travel to Gorseinon in the second round of the Gwalia Welsh Cup.

Having been put in to bat on a bowler-friendly pitch against Gymkhana, Monmouth lost star batsman David Teague to the first ball of the match.

Things got worse for the hosts and they soon slid to 17 for four, thanks to excellent bowling from Jaura (two for 17) and Elahi (two for 23).

Risk (19) and Martin Newell (16) staged a small fight-back but both were dismissed by Ali who finished with five for 24 from 10 overs.

Monmouth, who are sponsored by JD Wetherspoon and Jewel Balti, were bowled out for 91 in 39.5 overs.

However, Monmouth produced an inspired fielding and bowling display as Gymkhana collapsed to 54 all out, giving the hosts an unlikely 37-run victory.

Newell (two for nine) finished off the innings, while man-of-the-match Roberts also claimed two catches.

The match balls were sponsored by Ancre Hill Vineyard.

Meanwhile, Monmouth's Second team scheduled match at Cardiff Gymkhana Seconds last Saturday was cancelled due to a waterlogged outfield.

Dave Wilding's men host Merthyr outfit Hoovers Seconds this Saturday and will look to get their campaign off to a good start.