A CHANGING of format in West Midlands Cricket next year has teams hoping for a good finish to secure their place in the Worcestershire County League.

After clubs voted against delaying the start of the season they now face a challenge of getting their pitches ready in time for the start this Saturday.

Colwall have put their faith in youth this campaign and leading the firsts in their Division One home clash against Bewdley will be 22-year-old Ben Cooke, having taken over the reins from last year’s skipper, Ben Wheeler, who has stepped down due to work commitments.

Cooke, currently a student at Worcester University, missed the second half of last season due to a hand injury, having batted superbly in the early part of the campaign, and his runs were missed as his side just avoided relegation.

Wheeler, an influential wicketkeeper-batsman, will continue to play the majority of games.

Burghill, Tillington and Weobley finished a place above Colwall last campaign and will also be hoping for a better campaign this time around.

They kick-start the 2018 season with a trip to Hagley with the seconds hosting Himbleton.

Wormelow Chairman Mick Merrick is doubtful the Kennel Field pitch will be ready for their opening Division Two match scheduled against Enville this weekend where Tom Cutler remains as first team captain.

Bromyard captain Edd Oliver is upbeat ahead of their campaign after welcoming back South African all-rounder Josh Van Rensburg into the side.

The third Herefordshire team in Division Two are Bartestree & Lugwardine after being handed promotion despite finishing third last year.

Graham Jones, chairman, hopes that they can finish as high as possible before the restructure.