NEWTOWN will bid to challenge for the first division title this summer.

The Recreation Ground club will be captained experienced all rounder John Anthony with brother David serving as vice captain as the club bid to maintain its reputation as Powys’ premier club despite last season’s league reorganisation.

Anthony takes over from Sam Cooke who has stepped down due to work commitments.

Following the latest Shropshire League reshuffle the club find themselves in a strong first division which will include second strings of Birmingham League clubs.

Anthony said: “We are looking forward to a new challenges and visiting new venues.”

Newtown have strengthened with the signing of all rounder Joe Monk from local rivals Welshpool while also welcoming the return of bowler David Laird from Bridgnorth.

With veteran Craig Davies returning from injury and New Zealand spinner Bryant Galpin committing to the cause for another year the Town squad looks strong.

However Ally Laird has been ruled out for the season through injury with the responsibility of taking wickets falling to the Anthony brothers, Dave Laird, Monk and Tom Anderson who will be looking to build on his outstanding debut season.

Meanwhile cousins Mathew and Aaron Knight will look to build on a solid first season with the bat with 2018 batsman of the year Tom Foulkes available for the beginning of the campaign.

Ryan Davies will look to provide middle order runs while Cooke will once again be behind the stumps.

Anthony said: “With a good spirit amongst the squad the focus will be to take each game at a time and be competitive in every game.

“We are looking forward to starting the season away at Ellesmere and getting off to a good start.”