City's Cricket clubs gear up for new season

PLENTY TO LOOK FORWARD TO THIS SUMMER AS A NEW CRICKET SEASON GETS UNDERWAY TODAY

- CONRAD SUTCLIFFE

RUN machine Jay Bista is back at Cornwood for another crack at Premier Division bowling in the Tolchards Devon Cricket League.

The season starts today for Cornwood, who make the short trip over the hill to newly promoted Plympton.

Bista bossed the bowling from start to finish in is first summer at Oak Park. The Indian batsman lashed nearly 1,100 league runs in 15 outings and finished with a whopping average of 90.67. His tally of five tons included 182 not out in an eight-wicket win at Sidmouth.

Skipper Elliott Staddon has lost none of his first-team pool, but has picked up a couple of players who will deepen it.

"I am delighted we have been able to keep the same team together from last year and added a couple of players," said Staddon.

"Jack Ormsby, a middle-order batter and off-spinner who has played in the Essex Premier League and for Cambridgeshire, has moved to Plymouth and will be a good addition.

"And Matt Puttock, a strong allrounder from Tavistock, adds strength to our club depth, which will be important throughout the season." Batting all-rounder Ben Beaumont has been in pre-season form for club and county and looks in great touch after a season at a cricket academy in Sydney.

"I am excited at hopefully seeing some big performances from Ben this year," said Staddon.

The reappearance of Chris Parker after six years out of the game is another boost to squad numbers.

Staddon anticipates a test in tomorrow's derby clash, but is backing his players to tough it out.

"Plympton will be full of confidence from getting promoted and we know they have some players who will be more than comfortable at Premier level," said Staddon.

"If we stick to our cricket, and maintain the great levels we've had during training, we hope for a strong start."