Devon Cricket Board - No exodus from Bradninch says Piper

No exodus from Bradninch says Piper

BRADNINCH captain Tim Piper has scotched talk of mass departures from Kensham Park following relegation from the Premier Division last term.

Piper was voted back into the captaincy at the club’s annual meeting last month, confounding the rumour mongers who whispered he was leaving.

There was speculation that Ross Acton, Will Squire and Dan Hardy were all set to leave before the start of next season along with Piper.

Match pro Jackson Thompson has left for Cornwood, but only one other player appears to have gone.

And Piper said he has been encouraged by players asking to join.

“We will lose Greg Maher, who has returned to Australia and doesn't look like coming back, but apart from that it is pretty similar to last season,” said Piper.

“As a club we should be stronger in numbers as we have had a couple of players join from Cullompton and expect a few more still.

“Having more players around the place will make it so much easier, whether they play 1st or 2nd XI cricket.

“We are looking at a batting all-rounder as an overseas player.

“One in particular who trained with us last year, whose a top lad, fits in well and had a great season up in Bristol last year.”

Piper said the cub had been pro-active on the recruiting front, but some of the responses coming in had surprised him.

“We have also approached some younger players after I suggested we try and get some decent young players in that haven't 'made' it yet,” said Piper.

“The intention was to give them a chance and some experience, ready for when we are back in the Premier.

“Unbelievably, the ones approached so far have suggested payment/reward of some kind.

These are players who don't play regular first team cricket with their club or do nothing in the first team. I was in shock!”

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