At one stage, it looked like we wouldn’t reach this point in 2020.

But today, competitive Pembroke County Cricket Club cricket will resume with the opening round of the Harrison-Allen Bowl and a singular Alec Colley Cup contest too. Teams have been meeting for friendlies in the past two weeks but now it’s time for business.

There are three all Division 1 ties between Whitland and Carew, and Saundersfoot and St Ishmaels, are among the seven fixtures going ahead.

It’s going to be an interesting month. All players, and sides, are short of match practice and never will the phrase ‘need to hit the ground running’ be more relevant.

Not everything will go smoothly. Warnings have been sent out reminding clubs that spectators are currently forbidden at PCCC games, unless they have a special requirement to be there. It’s a notion that has already caused some unrest and will be difficult to police.

The issue of an umpire shortage also remains, and rain will no doubt rear its head this month when we need it least.

And of course, there will be those champing at the bit to complain about something – purely for the sake of complaining about something.

But overall, this should be seen as a positive day. Cricket Wales have been proactive throughout the Coronavirus Pandemic, and have frequently encouraged authorities to prepare for a possible return of cricket.

In Pembrokeshire, there was no doubt some debating but given at one stage looking like we would get nothing – the Bowl, Colley, Allan Brown and Ken Morris Cup competitions are all going ahead, alongside cluster group friendlies.

It’s a bonus that everyone involved with the local game should appreciate.

Today’s fixtures:

Harrison-Allen Bowl Round 1 (1pm):

Burton v Pembroke Dock

Whitland v Carew

Hundleton v Llangwm

Saundersfoot v St Ishmaels

Narberth v Johnston

Llechryd v Neyland

Alec Colley Cup (4.30pm):

Saundersfoot v Burton