NEW Himbleton skipper Richard Sugden wants the Meadows Boys to play without fear in the restructured Worcestershire County League.
Sugden was elected as the new first XI captain at the club’s AGM and replaces Stuart Dickenson, who has stepped down from his role after two seasons in charge.
Having only joined in 2017, Sugden has quickly established himself as a keystone at the top of the Meadow Boys’ batting order.
Reflecting on his appointment, Sugden said: “I’m delighted to have been elected captain of Himbleton.
“Since I joined in early 2017, I’ve been made to feel welcome by everyone at the club.
“It’s a really special place and I’m loving my cricket at Harrow Lane.
“The team spirit and camaraderie is absolutely superb.
“Stuart has led the team with huge success over the last two seasons and his stewardship has inspired the club to new heights.
“Playing in Division Two last season was a challenge relished and enjoyed by everyone involved.
“We proved that with hard work and application, we are more than good enough to compete at this level.
“Next season is a fantastic chance to further develop our skills and showcase them at Birmingham League grounds.
“There is oodles of talent within the current crop of players and I’d like us to play without fear.
“It’s an extremely exciting time to be part of Himbleton and I’m thoroughly looking forward to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.”
Meanwhile, there has also been a major change on the board, with Dickenson taking over as club chairman.
He takes over from Jon Critchlow, who has stepped aside after five years at the helm.
Dickenson said: “It’s a great time to be leading the club forward, building on all the good work done by Jon and the committee.
“We’ll have our hands full on the pitch playing the second XIs of some of the biggest clubs in Worcestershire but I have high hopes for Richard and the team.
“Hopefully our fixture list will tempt a few new players who want to play for an up and coming village club.
“We’re working on a major sponsorship deal to support our development on and off the pitch and we’ll be looking to improve our facilities with the addition of an outdoor practice facility.
“That will require a lot of work from everyone at the club and hopefully our recent success will encourage investment from new places.
