SANDFORD’S overseas star Prince Masvaure is set to make his Devon League debut against Lewdown tomorrow.
Zimbabwean Masvaure is a current First Class player with the Mid-West Rhinos, where Filleigh’s Mark Mbofana and Cornwall professional Brad Wadlan are team-mates.
The 26-year-old all-rounder – bats left handed, bowls fast medium – skippered Zimbabwe at U19 level.
Marc Bettis, the former Devon keeper-batter, returns to the Sandford side having been registered with Bideford last season.
With Bettis and Masvaure available, Nigel Ashplant and Jim Shepherd drop out of the side.
“Nigel and Jim both played very important roles in the win last week and it was a very tough decision to leave them out,” said skipper Jamie Palmer.
“However in Prince and Marc we know we have two quality players to come in and strengthen the side.”
Sandford have not met Lewdown in a league game before, which makes the Moormen something of an unknown quantity.
However, Palmer said their reputation is well known through their battle to avoid relegation last season.
“Even though they've had a tough start we will not be underestimating them,” said Palmer.
“There's a reason they stayed up last year in a very competitive division and we know they always bring over very talented overseas players. “I am sure this year's will be no different.
“I'm looking for us to continue from the Hatherleigh game and play as a team again.
“If we do that we won't be far away.”