CONRAD SUTCLIFFE REPORTING

STEVE Edmonds will take over as Ashburton’s captain in 2022 following Ashley Berry’s decision to step aside.

Edmonds, who started out with Kingsbridge and went through the Devon youth ranks there before joining Premier side Paignton, has been with Ashburton as a playing regular since 2018. He played intermittently before then.

Ashburton have been one of the toughest sides to beat in C Division cricket during recent seasons under Berry and Edmonds wants to maintain that reputation.

“I’m delighted to take on the role at Ashburton, a club that has been incredibly welcoming and friendly since I joined. 

“A big part has been the atmosphere Bez (Berry) has created at the club – and I will do my best to continue that; playing positive cricket where everyone enjoys the game.”

Berry has been in charge of the Varwell Field club for seven and a half seasons and has been one of the club’s most successful skippers.

Berry stands down with a 61 per cent win rate as captain (57 wins from 92). Berry also skippered in the fixture where the 1st XI broke the all-time DCL record for most runs in a fixture, amassing 515 against Plymouth Civil Service & Roborough.

Berry won promotion from the D Division West in 2016 and led Ashburton to second spot in the C Division West in 2017 and 2019. Only the champions in East and West go up under current rules.

Looking back on his time as captain, Berry said: “It has been a genuine pleasure to have captained the club and I have too many people to thank for their support during my tenure. 

“We are in a really good place as a club with youth coming through and a series of decent league results, so it feels like the right time to pass over the reins to keep that momentum going. 

“I wish Steve all the best and look forward to carrying on playing.”

Berry, who has been with Ashburton since 2009, will continue as a player and early order batsman under Edmonds. Also carrying on is vice-captain Lloyd White.