Hamilton returns for Devon for Championship opener

PLYMPTON'S Elliot Hamilton is back at the top of Devon's batting order for the three-day National Counties Championship opener against Berkshire at Wargrave.

- By CONRAD SUTCLIFFE Cricket correspondent

Hamilton stepped away from representative cricket last summer in search of a break, which opened the door for Sidmouth's Sam Elstone to carve a niche for himself opening up.

Hamilton's return to the fold could not be better timed from Devon's point of view as Elstone and Cornwood's Ben Privett, another opening option are both on the injured list

As Hamilton averages nearly 40 in three-day cricket, his availability was music to the Devon management's ears.

Tim Western, the county club's performance director, said: “Elliot has experience in the three-day format and has been successful.