Long Sutton and Moulton Harrox Cricket Clubs get their South Lincs and Border League Premier Division campaign underway with a derby match at Harrox Field on Saturday (1pm).
The pair finished in the top two of last year’s mini East division, Harrox pipping Sutton to that title by virtue of five bonus points picked up in the six games as both sides finished with identical records.
It was an impressive showing from Moulton as it was their first time back at that level following the 2019 promotion season.
Now they’re looking to translate last year’s form into a full campaign in the Premier Division.
1st XI skipper Chris Beale said: “Our game with them in last season’s shortened campaign was unfortunately cut short by rain, so it should be an interesting game first up.
“We are similarly as strong as last season. We had Josh Newton join us from Spalding and Matt Rose from Market Deeping, who should make a big impact now with a full season of cricket.
“Josh will be a key batsmen for us, playing an anchoring role at number three, with Matt batting at four and bowling left arm seam.
“Jack Barnett will also be a key player, opening the batting for us as well as providing important control and wickets with his off spin bowling.
“Our second XI, led by Mark Ramsden and fielding a combination of experience and youth, will also be a strong outfit in the division below.
“We also have an u15s team this season who we will be hoping to bring through gradually to senior cricket on Sundays.
“Overall, both Saturday sides are hoping to be pushing towards the top of their divisions.
“The key will be getting off to a good start this weekend and building on that momentum week on week to see where it takes us.”
Spalding Town opened their South Lincs and Border League season with a defeat to Skegness Town last weekend.
They take on Grantham 2nd this weekend while Spalding 2nd open their Division One account at Billingborough 2nd.
