IT was a clean sweep for Belhus on the opening days of the cricket season as Joe Joyce inspired the firsts to a thumping win over Leigh-on-Sea.

Belhus won the toss, electing to bat and it proved a good decision. Joyce hit 111 on the way to the visitors’ final score of 259-5, and he was well supported by skipper Danny Joyce (37) and Michael Fogg (29).

In their run-chase, Leigh had no answer to the pace of Connor Day, who took a hugely impressive 6-40 from 13 overs to dismiss Leigh for a paltry 92 and steer Belhus to an impressive 167 run win.

The second XI also beat Leigh, running out victors by five wickets.

Under the leadership of new skipper John Lewis, Belhus dismissed Leigh for just 150 after paceman Jack Martin-Hussey had returned a career-best 6-31.

In reply, Jake Wolfe top scored with 49 to enable Belhus to reach the required target in 31 overs and clinch a comfortable five wicket victory.

Orsett failed to reach three figures in their match against Belhus thirds, with the latter recording a seven wicket win.

Under the stewardship of new captain Jack Plane, the Belhus thirds bowlers shared the wickets between them to dismiss Orsett for just 96.

After tea, it was Plane who lead from the front in stroking a handsome 40 not out as Belhus comfortably chased down the runs to cruise home for the loss of just three wickets.

Belhus’ fourth XI beat Oakfield Parkonians by 28 runs, having racked up a competitive 177 in their innings.

A fine maiden half-century by Zak Wilson helped them over the line, and he was ably supported by captain and father John, who ended with a powerful 29.

In reply, Old Parkonians were never really in the chase as tight bowling by the Belhus attack saw them home to a 28 runs win.