SIDMOUTH, where Taylor Ingham-Hill has assumed the captaincy mantle from Luke Bess, are at home to newly promoted Hatherleigh first time out.

Having dodged relegation last season thanks to a six-game winning streak at the end of it, Ingham-Hill is hoping for fewer dramas this term.

“The aim for the season is to bounce back from a disappointing year and fight for the top spots again,” said the new captain, who spent the UK winter playing Grade cricket in Australia.

Mathew Fourie, a 23-year-old quick bowler attached to Border, is the latest South African professional engaged by the Fortfielders.

George Sims, Fourie and Jens Wagstaff are among the Sidmouth debutants. Adam Dibble, once of Somerset and largely out of the game since leaving Taunton, comes in for his first game in a while.

On the challenge presented by Hatherleigh, new captain Ingham-Hill said: “A really exciting opportunity but always tough against a newly promoted side who will be wanting to showcase their skills.”

Received wisdom is that promoted clubs struggle to stay in the top flight and a are prone to prompt returns from whence they came. North Devon were reminded of that last season.

Rob Cockwill, Hatherleigh’s promotion-winning captain, intends the team to play with no fear.

“Our aim as usual is just to enjoy our cricket,” said Cockwill. “At the end of the day it’s a hobby for most of us, and we just want to enjoy our weekend without putting any pressure on performance. 

“If we enjoy our cricket I’m sure we will have enough to stay in the division.” 

Indian all-rounder Shrey Ghosh continues in the overseas role for a third season.

Hatherleigh don’t expect to see much of keeper-batter Ryan Davies, or seamer Charlie Neilson, both of whom are training for a John-o’-Groats-to-Land’s End charity run.