CAPTAIN Tom Cant has challenged Tynedale Cricket Club’s first team to get their hands on some silverware ahead of the new season.

Cant will lead the first XI at home to Newcastle City in Division One on Saturday, at the start of his his seventh full campaign as skipper.

The opening bat will also continue to lead Northumberland in Minor Counties Cricket Association fixtures.

He said: “We last won the league in 2014, and a cup back in 2011, so it’s time to change that this season.

“The lads have worked hard in the gym and indoors at South North CC before getting outdoors, so if we can have consistent availability we should be challenging for honours this season.”

Tynedale won two friendly matches last weekend, against Blagdon Park and Stocksfield, with young and experienced players performing well in both games.

Among them was Australian Josh Shuard, Tynedale’s new overseas player, who showed the home crowd what he can do with three wickets and an unbeaten innings of 50 runs.

The 26-year-old will bring experience to the Tynedale ranks, from his time in the Queensland Premier League, as well as genuine pace with the new ball. U14 leg spinner Zak Old is the only other new addition to the club.

The only departure is Callan McCabe, who has returned to Durham to join Consett.

Cant added: “Youngster Jake Robson will play his senior cricket at the club now, as well as his junior cricket, and is one of many exciting juniors coming through the system.”

Elsewhere in Division One, Stocksfield will open their new season at Lanchester, while in Division Two, Ponteland will host Cowgate Sports.

Allendale will begin life in Northumberland and Tyneside League Division Four, after making the switch from the West Tyne League. They will host Stobswood Welfare on Saturday. Also in Division Four, Ponteland II will travel to Newcastle City’s second team, and Stocksfield II will host Clara Vale. Division Five South will see Tynedale seconds travel to Cowgate Sports II. In Division Six South, Riding Mill will host Corbridge II.