Sides facing a season of consolidation in Marches

The north Herefordshire club will be missing a leading bowler, former captain and wicketkeeper as they attempt to retain their title.

Kington will be fielding a young side as they begin a new chapter after withdrawing from the Birmingham & District League.

And it’s a similar story at Herefordians who celebrate their 60th anniversary by making their debut in the top section of the Marches League.

Luctonians’ director of cricket, Duncan Platford, said: “We are hoping to defend our title but we are looking to rebuild with some young lads.”

Grant Giles, a leading bowler from last season, has moved away for work and there are availability doubts over wicketkeeper Hamish Light.

Last season’s captain, Andrew Wilmot, has changed his job and won’t be able to play, while Paul Davies has a long-term injury.

Luctonians are building a new cricket pavilion at the far end of Mortimer Park which will have a bar, toilets, tea room and cloakroom.

Players will still change and shower in the main clubhouse but the function room will be hosting events over the summer.

Kington chairman Duncan Morgan said his club were hoping to be competitive this summer.

“We will have a very young side and, hopefully, it will be like a new dawn for the club,” said Morgan.

“We have not had a first-team playing on a Saturday in a Herefordshire cricket league for 20 years. We will try to be competitive in all three divisions as we look to consolidate and rebuild.”

Herefordians stalwart Terry Mason said unavailabilities would hamper his club’s start to the new season.

“We have had three promotions in three years and our club always seems to run in three or four year cycles,” said Mason.

“We have some clever people playing for us and it means that players will leave the area for education and work purposes.”

Mason added: “There will be a six-week period during the season when we should be strong and I think we will have to win every game.”