THIS season Taunton St Andrews will be captained by Justin Burke who combines the role with team manager, in place of Lloyd Alley who is getting married during the summer and will be unavailable for part of the campaign, writes Richard Walsh.

Burke, who is a seasoned campaigner and last year played a key role in helping to get the Saints back into the top division said: “It’s a exciting year for us being back in Premier One and I’m delighted to be appointed as the captain/manager of the First XI.

“We have got a couple of extra players who have come into the fold to strengthen our bowling Matt Lieberman a six foot five tall South African who bowls good pace and bats a bit and also Craig Dorado who was here three years ago who also bowls quick.

“In addition to that we have got James Rew, plus George and Josh Thomas along with Toby Williams Thomas as well who are all another year older and their careers are developing.

“Other younger guys like Jay Terry are coming through and also James Matravers who is young but very talented so it’s all looking good at this stage of proceedings.”

Burke who was last year’s leading wicket taker went on: “I will be looking to get the younger players involved because they are the future of the club and they are getting better as we get older!

With all of the youngsters in the line up where did Burke think he was going to fit into the side?

“That’s the good thing about being captain I can pick myself! Last year I won the Bowler of the Year Award so Im staying fit and I know my skills, so as long as I think I can contribute to the team on the pitch I will keep on playing.

“We have got three very experienced batters in James Regan, Steve Tinnion and Loius Kraucamp and we also have Lloyd Alley who is very good in both areas, so we have got a very strong side.”

Saints have got three pre-season games starting on April 16th against Tiverton Heathcoat at home, then Sandford away on Sunday 24th April after which they play Taunton Deane in the Brice Nelson Trophy on April 30th which is away for the first team.

Burke added: “Pre-season nets have gone well. So far we have been indoors at King’s College but now we are moving to our brilliant three lane outdoor nets which we have at The Wyvern. Now it’s full steam ahead and we are all looking forward to getting started.”