Haines aiming for team consolidation (From Stroud News and Journal)

Haines aiming for team consolidation

NEW Stroud captain Gareth Haines is calling for a season of consolidation ahead of his side's opening clash at home to Hatherley on Saturday (1.30pm).

Haines has taken the helm from Ali Bell following Stroud's relegation from Premier Two and is up for the challenge.

He said: "After the disappointment of relegation last season, we, as a club, are looking for a consolidation season, where we still aim to be competitive.

"It is an honour to lead Stroud. Everybody is ready for the challenge ahead."

Youth will certainly play a key in Haines' team ethos. He added: "We have a good mix of youth players, in Luke Benneyworth and Chris Job, the latter showing the potential that was evident all through last season and without doubt one of Stroud's players of the season."

However, the loss of Leighton Collins and Ben Pockett through injury will be a massive blow. On the plus side Stroud will be boosted by the return of Ed Mobbs and the added bonus of having Martin Kimber returning from overseas who will undoubtedly strengthen the batting along with Mark Bryan to open the innings. Bell will also be looking to get amongst the runs.

On the bowling front, the attack will be spearheaded by Olly Waters and the promising Luke Benneyworth, with valuable support from Haines, Paul Frape, James Pockett and Toby Carman Elsewhere, the club have recruited strongly during the winter in strengthening the 2nd and 3rd team, which will be ably captained by Rich Tuttle and Barry Wright. The Sunday X1 will be captained by Paul Frape.