Bermuda Autism Early Intervention Centre were the recent beneficiaries of $2,500, raised by the seasoned cricketers from Harris Bay and Somerset Old Boys who lock horns annually in the name of charity.

The Harris Bay and Somerset Old Boys charity was formed by Harrington Zuill and Frederick Tucker, father of former Somerset Cup Match all-rounder Reggie Tucker, in 1953 and since then thousands of dollars have been raised by the two teams.

"The Old Boys game is very unique in that each player must pay to play, and this goes a long way to help defray expenses," explained Harris Bay and Somerset Old Boys secretary Darnley Smith. "We also depend on the generosity of our ardent supporters and fans that have made this yearly event a success."

Old Boys chairman Garry Williams thanked those who have supported his organisation over the years and encouraged new members to join.

"I hope we can encourage younger members to join and get involved because it's important we keep this tradition going," he said.

Champions Harris Bay retained the 55-year-old cup this year by way of a draw after heavy rain put paid to the match at Somerset Cricket Club.

Harris Bay were flutterring at 135 for eight after being sent in to bat when showers forced the two teams off the field. Captain Maxwell Musson played a genuine skipper's innings with a battling 43 against a Somerset attack led by Anthony (Berker) Burchall who gathered two for 15 during a four-over spell of gentle seam.

Burchall was the catalyst behind a major collapse that saw Harris Bay lose six wickets for 38 runs before the heavens opened and completely wiped out Somerset's cup hopes.

"At the end of the day charity was the biggest winner, which is what mattered most," commented Somerset skipper Kevin Saunders.