TORQUAY & Kingskerswell captain Harry Passenger has every reason to feel optimistic going into the A Division season, which starts with a trip to Kilmington.

Passenger isn’t shy about his promotion aspirations – and warm-up wins over Stoke Gabriel and Ipplepen have only whetted his appetite for the battels ahead.

Passenger’s re-worked squad has already shown the potential to mount the challenge he wants

“It’s been a seriously exciting start to the season for us,” said Passenger.

“The new lads have hit the ground running straight away. Jimmy Clifford (78) played a proper knock at Ipplepen, scoring really important runs on a tricky wicket when we really needed it. 

“James Tyler also made an instant impact with a well-earned five-for, and our newest signing Kazi (Szymanski) looked a real handful from the other end with a quick, aggressive spell.

“Ed Smout-Cooper (28) showed exactly what he’s about as well - proper classy innings, just took control of things and settled it all down. His experience really showed there.

“We’ve still got a handful of Exeter Uni lads to come into what is already a stupidly strong squad, so on paper there’s loads to be excited about.

“With promotion the aim, hopefully the buzz around the group keeps building and spreads right through the club.”

Ben Pomare, the Northern Districts player over from New Zealand for the summer, introduced himself to Stoke Gabriel’s bowling with a midweek half-century.

Looking ahead to Saturday’s visit to the Hitchcock Field, Passenger said: “Kilmington away is always a tough one, but usually a good, high-scoring game.

“Selection’s going to be a bit of a headache, but that’s exactly where we want to be: proper competition for places.”

Kilmington skipper Oli Reed reports no significant ins of outs, although there is some good news on the selection front.

“Availability looks much better and we should have a strong squad of 15-16 players,” said Reed.

“Matt Rockett is back in the fold having not played any games last season. Massive boost to our batting and fielding.”

Bowling all-rounder Luke Meek, from Fairfield Liverpool in Sydney, is Kilmington’s overseas player. The 20-year-old has been playing First and Second Grade cricket in the New South Wales Premier competition.

“Still trying to recruit a few more to give a strong push for the season ahead,” said Reed.

Sam Farrow, formerly with Uplyme, was a late addition to Kilmimgton’s squad.

Uplyme have pulled out of the Tolchards DCL due to organisational difficulties.