Hodgson believes Oundle can be 'right up there'

Conor Craig has been tipped for a good season by Oundle captain Mark Hodgson

Oundle Town skipper Mark Hodgson believes his team are ready to make a sustained challenge for Premier Division honours in the Hevey Building Supplies Northants Cricket League.

The men from Milton Road have been steady improvers over the last couple of seasons.

Oundle finished seventh in 2018 and fourth in 2019 when they were one of only two teams to topple champions Peterborough Town.

Last season they finished second to Town in a shortened season before bowing out in the semi-finals of the play-offs.

“We have proved over the last couple of seasons we can beat anyone on our day,” Hodgson stated.

“If we can add some consistency then it should be an exciting season for us.

“I reckon we will be right up there this year.”

Oundle have been trying to recruit an overseas batsman, but the Covid-19 pandemic has made such a manoeuvre difficult.

They will be hampered by the absence of key batsman/wicketkeeper Dan Robinson because of injury for the first month of the summer, but Pete Foster, who can fill both roles, is back.

Oundle have also been boosted by the decision of gifted left-arm slow bowler Harrison Craig to stay at the club after resisting overtures from the East Anglian Premier League.

“Pete Foster will have a great season in my opinion,” Hodgson added. “It’s also great to watch David Foster bowl when he’s available.

“The Craig brothers Conor and Harrison will be big players for us as will all-rounder Tom Norman now he’s fully fit.

“I really fancy Conor Craig to go well.

“He has always been talented, but he’s another year older and wiser now so he will be one of the top all-rounders in the league.”

Oundle open their Premier Division season at Rushden & Higham tomorrow (Saturday).

Desborough Town face the tough task of travelling to Peterborough on the opening day of the campaign while Geddington entertain 2017 champions Old Northamptonians.

Brigstock welcome Horton House to The Meadow for an opening-day clash while the other game of the day sees Overstone Park hosting Brixworth.

There are 11 clubs in the top flight this season with 2018 champions Finedon Dolben having a free opening weekend.

The majority of the other divisions get under way a week on Saturday (May 1).