The new season is approaching fast in the Tolchards Devon Cricket League and clubs across the region are entering their final stages of preparation for a summer of sport.
Throverton boasted new signing Tom Diamond for their pre-season game against Cullompton and the impressive young student from the University of Exeter has previously represented Aberdeenshire CC in Scotland.
After a season with Exmouth, former captain Stuart Shaw has returned to a familiar stomping ground at Alphington & Countess Wear.
All-rounder Tom Durman is another player heading back to an old club, as he rejoined Ipplepen after a brief stint with Kingsbridge.
Wicketkeeper – batsman Robin Fern has been confirmed as the new captain of Exeter’s first XI for the new Premier Division season in a move that will hopefully bring some stability to a club that has seen four different skippers over the past few campaigns.
Fern joined Exeter in 2013 and he told the Devon Cricket League website: “One of the biggest challenges is living up to the reputation Exeter has and carrying the club through at a decent level.”
Torquay CC made the exciting announcement that former Bangladesh Test international Sajidul Islam will be their overseas professional for the 2021 season.
The 32 year-old is a pace bowling all-rounder, who made his First Class debut in 2005, boasts a fine record of over 300 wickets and 2,000 runs. He represented Bangladesh in Test matches against New Zealand and Zimbabwe.
Stoke Gabriel continued the international theme with the recruitment of South African batsman Joshua Arendse, who previously scored 374 runs in a spell with Exeter.
Left-arm spinner Matt Petherbridge has left Plymouth to sign for Callington and has immediately expressed an ambition to earn a call-up to the Cornwall county side.
In North Devon, Braunton are busily building a strong squad for the new season, as they have signed Jamie Lathwell to bolster their bowling options.
Finally, Chudleigh will have a new captain at the helm, with Will Heather taking on the job to succeed his younger brother Matt.