PAIGNTON’S first-team squad has been strengthened for the Tolchards DCL Premier Division season ahead by the return of some familiar faces to the dressing room, writes Conrad Sutcliffe.
Left-armer Cole Harford is back on board after another stint with Barton – and has brought Matt Lipton with him from Cricketfield Road. Lipton bats and bowls. He was the man of the moment with a half-century in Barton’s win over A Division champions Hatherleigh last season.
Seamer Jack Harman should feature regularly now his university studies are concluded.
Another returnee is Connor Ashworth, a batting all-rounder, who has been playing Somerset League cricket for Wiveliscombe since 2023.
Ashworth averaged more than 50 with the bat last season, which included taking centuries off Chard and Street.
Tom MacDonald, a seam bowler studying at Exeter University, has been signed-up and should feature in the side until mid-June.
With South African seam bowler Aya Gqamana booked for a second summer at Queen’s Park – he was the Premier Division’s leading wicket taker in 2025 with 54 poles – Paignton have the armoury to go one better than last season’s runners-up spot behind Bradninch & Kentisbeare.
Harry Ward, the Paignton captain, is clearly comfortable with the group of players he has assembled. But setting targets before a ball is bowled is not on his agenda.
“Great to strengthen the squad ahead of the season, and pretty much retain the same squad from last year,” said Ward. “The only departure is Mark Orchard (Brixham) who will be a big miss around the group and club.
“Having Aya return is a massive boost to the squad and club as a whole; having someone of his quality in the side will give us a huge lift and belief.
“Our aims are pretty much the same as last year’s in the fact that we are just going to go out and enjoy are Saturdays on and off field as a group, and look to be competitive.
“We know if we get the enjoyment side right, which part of that league table we are capable of competing at.”
Paignton get their Premier Division season under way on May 2 with a trip to Exeter.
