BUILTH Wells will once again fly the Welsh flag in the first division of the GB Liners Marches League.

The Garth Road club will be led by Sam Williams in the pursuit of a top half of the table finish for the second successive season.

Builth ended fifth last season, winning eight and losing nine, to ensure their safety and another summer of first division cricket.

Spokesman Steve Powell said: “We will want to finish in the top half of the table this season and a cup final appearance would be nice.”

Williams is among the most feared batsmen in the division with his 744 runs last season the second highest.

Allrounder Dylan McPhee also struck 575 runs during a successful campaign with vice captain Aled Powell also expected to be among the runs following his haul of 435 in 2017.

McPhee proved prolific on his day last summer, completing two double centuries in a fine campaign.

Builth will also look to their reliable bowling attack.

Rob Wall was the seventh best bowler in the league last season with the wily veteran picking up 30 wickets while all rounder Dylan McPhee took 25.

Builth will also look to the continued emergence of Henry Edwards.

Powell said; “Although Henry’s appearances may be limited due to exams we look forward to his involvement having worked really hard on his technique during the winter.”

With the long serving Steve Fuller departed for work outside the area the club will also be looking to the next generation under the leadership of Stuart Cripps.

The Builth Wells second string competes in the third division and provides a vital link to the first team for hopeful youngsters taking their first steps in the sport.

Powell said: “The seconds will look to improve on last season’s placing while continuing to introduce young players from the area to competitive cricket.”

Builth IIs can look forward to derbies with Powys rivals Presteigne who will look to enjoy an improved campaign following their struggles of 2017.