MORE consistency is the key to North Devon mounting a serious title bid in this season’s Premier Division.

That’s the view of new skipper Tom Popham going into the new season, which starts this Saturday at Exmouth.

“For the last few years we have had a squad good enough to win the league, but haven’t done it,” said Popham.

“We tend to start well, have an iffy middle then have to dig ourselves out it at the end.

“We still have a squad capable of winning the league if we take it one game at a time and don’t get ahead of ourselves.”

Australian all-rounder Adrian Isherwood is back for a second stint at Instow, but misses round one due to a suspension carried forward from the end of last season.

Opening bat Tom Ansell is now living and working in London, which will limit his appearances.

Left-arm spinner Stef James has expectant father duties and won’t play that often either.

And former captain Westaway has expressed a preference for playing 2nd XI cricket, although he will be available for the first team if needed.

Somerset and England Lions’ paceman Jamie Overton is available and eligible for North Devon when his professional commitments allow.

Veteran Richard Screech will start the season behind the stumps, but county age-group player James Tyson will get opportunities.

Jay Rothery, who bats and bowls, is another young player working his way through the senior elevens who can expect first-team games.