BRIXHAM CC skipper Dalton Sanders has played down suggestions his side are C Division West promotion favourites, despite a successive close-season recruitment programme.

Former Devon county duo George Benton and Mark Orchard have arrived from Paignton – and brought Tom Blundell and Connor Bryan with them.

Off-spinner Blundell and all-rounder Orchard are returning to their Brixham roots. Batter Bryan and seamer Benton are former Premier Division captain at Paignton, as was Orchard.

Craig Eaves – he bats and bowls when available – is another Brixham old boy. He is back for a third stint at Boundary Park following a spell with Barton.

That’s an impressive array of talent on top of what Brixham had last summer, which included prolific Pakistani batter Mo Shaikh, who averaged 92.75 last summer. He is due back for a second season.

“Mo returning is great for the club, not only for what he does on the pitch but off the pitch as well,” said Sanders. “He really bought into the club, and everyone here is pleased to have him back.”

Sanders is clearly pleased with his off-season signings, but cautious about sticking his neck out.

“The signings we have made all bring their own qualities – and not only that they are a good fit for the group we have and are looking to build,” said Sanders.

“I wouldn’t say we are favourites for promotion as it’s the tough division it always been. There are a lot of tough sides that we’ll look forward playing when that times come.

“We’ll just take it week by week, doing the most to enjoy our Saturdays.”

Reflecting on the signings so far, Sanders started with the return of Mark Orchard.

“Scrump coming back home, and raring to get going, is something you can never turn down,” said Sanders. 

“Connor has joined us after taking a year off and is looking to get back into the swing of things and enjoy his cricket again. Personally, I can’t wait to work with him. 

“Craig Eaves is back for another stint and we’ll be hoping to get more than the customary four games out of him!

“As for the other lads, they are back looking to enjoy their cricket.”