THE region’s two leading clubs will both be under new captains this summer.

Charlie Bourne will skipper Alberbury while Ally Laird takes the helm at Newtown as both clubs plot success in the John Rees League.

The clubs have been placed in a competitive six club mini-league which will commence on Saturday following new social distancing guidelines.

Bourne said: “We’re delighted that cricket can now return and are looking forward to playing competitive cricket against our local sides.

“We have entered all three of our senior teams into the Shropshire County Cricket League and will be looking to our senior and more experienced batsman, Mark Jones and Michael Crawshaw, to be making the usual valuable contributions.

“All three sides will have a good mix of youth and experience.

“All rounders Matt Bevan, Sam Morris, Lara Jones and our new signing Ieuan Griffiths, are likely to play key supporting roles.”

Bourne will be supported by vice captain Sam Morris.

Meanwhile cricket also makes a welcome return to the Elephant and Castle Recreation Ground with Newtown relishing the start to the season.

A club spokesman said “We are delighted to see competitive cricket return this summer. Huge credit goes to Shropshire cricket.”

Meanwhile Ally Laird takes over the captaincy having missed all of last season through injury.

Laird is joined in completing a return to action by Twm Foulkes who also missed much of last season.

However Town must do without Bryant Galpin who has returned to New Zealand while Dave Laird has joined league rivals Sentinal.

Captain Laird said: “I am looking forward to starting this season in the local mini league and our aim is to win this.

“We are looking to support our strong bowling attack with more consistency with the bat”

Town open their campaign at home to Chirk in a Welsh derby while local pride is also at stake when Alberbury travel to local rivals Pontesbury.