The Challengers mustered only 60 runs in their innings, which lasted 18.2 overs against the Western Bulls.

The Bulls chased the total with eight wickets to spare in the 10th over, thanks to the batting of Phillip Bellinger.

Bulls coach Adrian Morrisby said his team was just excited to get back into it after a long winter.

“Sunday was a good hit-out for the boys, and although we weren’t really pushed, it was an opportunity to get rid of some of the rust,” he said.

“Opener Phil Bellinger had a strong session at the crease, leading us to victory with a handy 39 runs.

“With the ball, it was good to see all our bowlers get among the wickets, rewarding their hard work.

“We will definitely be looking to build on this match next weekend.”

Bulls captain Kyle Anderson ended with three wickets, Chris Poole chipped in with two and Mick Diamond, Wes Hall and Morrisby all snagged one.

Despite the disappointing result, Challengers captain Naren Ramachandran said there were plenty of positives to take out of their first competitive match.

“It’s good to finally get a game under our belts and shake off the nerves, because this standard is quite different to what we have been accustomed to,” he said.

“The boys will learn plenty from the match and not be so tense in the lead-up to next weekend’s match.

“A lot of our batsmen got starts but failed to go on and make a big total, which is something that we will work on.

“But the bowling of Shaheed Anwar was exceptional and I expect him to be our leader in that regard all season.”