SOUTH Devon CC start pre-season training at the Devon Cricket Centre on February 10.

After last season’s near miss in the D Division West promotion race, the Newton Abbot side are aiming to go one better in 2019.

Devon Lions spin bowler James Allen has turned down approaches from Premier Division clubs to stay on and captain his home-town team for another season.

South Devon have said farewell to player-coach Dinesh Raheja after two seasons at Marsh Road, but have potential new signings in the pipeline.

Four Sunday night dates at the Devon Cricket Centre have been booked. They are February 10 (6-8pm), February 17 (5-6pm), February 24 (6-8pm) and March 3 (5-6pm). The Devon Cricket Centre is located on Stocker Road on the University of Exeter campus.

Further details of net practice and what South Devon CC can offer potential new recruits from skipper Allen on 07951 747663. 

South Devon’s league season starts on May 4 when they run into former team-mates Pat Duke and Shaun Taylor at newly promoted Chelston & Kingskerswell CC.

Before that there is the likely prospect of a pre-season tour to South Wales in mid-to-late April.

Details are still being finalised, but a rough itinerary is for a two-night stay in Cardiff and at least one game against Abergavenny.

South Devon have not toured for more than 10 years. Joe Kitto, the ad-hoc tour manager, said a trip away would be an ideal team-building exercise before the new season starts.

“Regardless of whether you are a current player or not, it would be great for everyone to get involved and participate in a weekend we can all look forward to,” said Kitto.

“I believe a tour is a great next step in continuing in the right direction as a club.”

Contact Kitto through the South Devon CC facebook page it you are a potential tourist.