By CONRAD SUTCLIFFE

SANDFORD skipper Richard Foan is resigned to losing one of his strike bowlers and not seeing much of another when the 2022 Premier season in the Tolchards DCL starts.

Definitely gone is Josh King, who has told Foan he won’t be playing at Sandford next summer.

King, 29, joined Sandford for the 2021 season from North Devon, where he had been a virtual ever-present in the first team since 2015.

“I loved playing for the club that is run extremely well and with a great bunch of people,” said King.

“I have just slowly fallen out of love with cricket.”

Kings said he had 'no plans to play’ next season, but has not ruled it out completely.

“If I do play it is likely to be the odd game with North Devon 2nd XI, purely to play with a few mates and enjoy it.”

Foan said he was sad to see King leave Creedy Park, but understood why.

“Josh was great to have around the club and really improved in the second half of the season,” said Foan.

“It is a shame to lose Josh, but has to do what he feels right for himself.”

Trevor Anning, like King a former Devon seamer, is unlikely to feature in Sandford sides on a regular basis in future due to work commitments.

In two spells with Sandford – 2004-2008 and 2019-2021 – Anning has taken 142 league wickets at an average of around 21 runs each.

Throw in 1,650 league runs at an average in the high 20s and it is not hard to see Anning’s all-round value to Sandford.

Anning will remain registered to play, although his appearances are likely to be limited.

“Trevor will still be available when needed, but has work commitments on Saturdays, which makes it difficult for him to commit every weekend,” said Foan.

“I am sure Trevor will play a few when needed, which is a great help for us.”