The waiting is almost over . . . top flight action in the League returns tomorrow – Friday 28th April.
And the big question is can Horsehay retain the first division championship?
Having ended an 85 year wait to finish top of the pile again, the “Hoss’ open their defence of the title away against promoted Allscott Heath with new signing, Merit runner-up John Roberts, expected to feature.
Last year’s second division winners Shifnal are one of the teams everyone has been talking about in the countdown to the 2023 season.
The signings of Paul Beer, Alison Cotton and Pauline Wilson amongst others mean Chris Newbrok is set to take on a non-playing captain’s role for their opener at Sinclair, who boast last year’s division one averages winner Harry Church in their lne-up.
Newport, with new Merit champion John Breeze in their ranks, face a tough test for starters away at 2022 runners-up Wrockwardine Wood while St Georges – third last year – head for Hadley USC.
Trench, who survived relegation last year with a fine win over St Georges on the last night of the campaign, travel to Sir John Bayley – who have recruited Angus Needham – while Bowring entertain Madeley Cricket Club.
Meanwhile, a late flood of entries means the new Monday Night Merit will be launched on 1st May with more than 40 bowlers heading to qualifiers at Madeley CC and Sinclair for a 6pm start.
Four each from both venues will then make the finals night on Monday 8th May (6.30pm).