Park looking to make up for 2021 disappointment

Division Five ASHCOMBE PARK 2nd XI

NARROWLY missed out on promotion last term, ending up in third place - and just a handful of points off a toptwo position.

It looks like being a similar sort of squad for skipper Steve Proffitt to lead this time out, with the emphasis being on lots of experience and a smattering of youth.

Captain: Steve Proffitt.

Prospects: They will fancy their chances of going one better than they did in 2021.

If the fine margins fall their way this time, no reason why they can’t be celebrating come the end of the season.

CAVERSWALL 2nd XI

SOME bright points in

2021, but far too many disappointing days for them to trouble the leading places.

Still, they showed what they’re capable of after reaching the final of the

Talbot Shield.

The experienced Andy Hopwood joins from Endon, which is a big boost, while Craig Lancaster leads the team.

Captain: Craig Lancaster. Prospects: They will be aiming for better than their ninth-placed finish last term. And with some astute signings, the indications are that they can inch up a couple of places at the very least.

Division Six

OAKAMOOR 2nd XI

JUST five points prevented Oakamoor from making the step up at the end of last season.

So that’s probably why there hasn’t been much to report on the transfer front over the winter.

Dan James skippers the side. Captain: Dan James. Prospects: A settled squad bodes well for Oakamoor and you would imagine that they will be in the reckoning for a promotion berth this summer.

Division Seven

CHEADLE 3rd XI

EXCELLED last year to be crowned Division Eight champions and take their place at the next level.

It looks like being a similar sort of squad which takes to the field in 2022.

Jamie Bratt captains the side this summer as they look to build on last year’s success. Captain: Jamie Bratt Prospects: Cheadle is a club which is growing and enjoying success throughout the divisions.

Don’t bet against them having another decent run at promotion after making the move up.

CHECKLEY 3rd XI

SOME highs and lows for Checkley thirds last summer as they banked ninth place.

Another side who put a strong emphasis on providing opportunities for their younger players as they start their cricketing journeys. Their development will once again be overseen by experienced all-rounder Gavin Carr, pictured above. Captain: Gavin Carr. Prospects: It’s not a big issue for Checkley where they finish - as long as they can stay up.

Carr’s vast knowledge and leadership skills should help them to enjoy a productive summer to benefit the club in the long term.

ENDON 2nd XI

A DISAPPOINTING summer in 2021 as they were relegated from Division Six.

Last year’s captain Andy Hopwood has also opted to take on a new challenge this summer, which leaves them with a void to fill.

Captain: TBC

Prospects: A level lower, but it could still be a testing campaign for Endon’s second string.

If they can finish in midtable that would be a good effort.

RODE PARK & LAWTON 2nd XI

TEN wins and 10 defeats in 2021 highlighted the inconsistent nature of Rode Park & Lawton seconds.

But players - experienced and young - were given the chance to show their skills in the division last summer.

Dave Blatherwick captains again and will want to see more of the same.

Captain: Dave Blatherwick. Prospects: If they get off to a decent start, then it could be a season of improvement for the seconds.

Either way, there will be plenty of enjoyment over the 22 weeks.