ROWLEDGE Cricket Club approach the new season full of optimism after a successful 2016 campaign.

The 1st XI maintained their Southern Premier League Division One status, finishing seventh in the table, and look forward to another hard, competitive season.

They travel to Bournemouth on May 6 for their first game, but captain and wicketkeeper, Ben Wish, remains doubtful for the start as he recovers from his third knee operation.

The side will be looking to the experience of David Lloyd, Chris Board and Ian Metcalfe for consistency in what remains a very young outfit.

George Keeley is likely to again be a pivotal figure in what will be a spin-dominated bowling attack, although he is also likely to miss the start due to university.

Overseas player Tom Treble has arrived from Australia and will be keen to make an immediate impact in the league.

Steve Martin leads Rowledge 2nd XI who will be looking for a positive season as a newly promoted side to County Division One. Carlo Bruno’s 3rd XI will be in their highest ever division, County Four North.

Rowledge have competed in the National Village Cup for nearly 35 years and again take their place in the competition which has been restructured this season in an attempt to bring in new clubs. Rowledge travel to Oakwood Hill on May 14 for their opening game.