BARNARD Castle CC skipper James Quinn believes this NYSD season could be the most open in the league’s history.
Teams go into the 2022 campaign, which begins on Saturday, unsure of the strength of their opponents after the league voted to allow clubs to pay their players.
Until now, teams in the top division have been permitted only two professionals, one of whom could come from overseas.
The overseas rule continues, but otherwise, it is an open league throughout its five divisions.
While some clubs are known to have unlocked the chequebook, Barney – who voted against the change – have stuck with the traditional format of not paying non-professional players.
The club will welcome the return of Indian batsman Samarth Seth as overseas pro and prolific wicket-taker Karl Carver as the English pro.
Seth scored almost 1,500 runs, averaging a touch under 45 in a season that included three centuries and ten 50s.
Carver bagged 77 wickets with his wily left arm spin at an average of just 13.14 and also contributed more than 900 runs at an average of 38.
Despite the new league regime, Quinn expects his settled squad to be competing for honours once again, after finishing runners-up in the premier division last season.
“We have got more or less the same squad as we had last season. Karl is already with us and Samarth joins us after missing Saturday’s opener against Billingham,” said the skipper.
“Both contributed a lot last season.”
Owen Pedelty has left to try his luck at Bishop Auckland, but other than that, it’s the same 13 or 14 players who will be vying for a place in the starting 11.
Finn Usher and James Clarkson will look to establish a good partnership at the top of the order, with Quinn, Seth and big hitting Richard Borrowdale aiming to add middle order runs.
The ever reliable Rob Dixon and Josh Bousfield will lead the attack supported by Rob West, who enjoyed many moments in the sun with bat and ball last season.
Tom Merryweather and Richard Watson will provide strength in depth when needed.
“Overall, it was a good season last year, although disappointing to finish second in the league,” added Quinn.
“We ended up drawing too many games and that probably cost us in the end.
“We aim to challenge on all fronts, but the premier league is the biggest thing for us.”
Barney warmed up for the season with a couple of friendly games against Woodhouse Grange CC, led by former skipper James Finch.
The batsmen enjoyed a good work out in a 40-over game on Saturday, knocking up 230 in 40 overs before the bowlers restricted the visitors to 152-8. Then on Sunday, the teams played a 20 over game, Barney cruising home by five wickets after Woodhouse posted 106-7.
Barney’s opening fixture against Billingham, is at Vere Road and starts at 12.30pm on Saturday. The second XI are away at Rockliffe Park.
On Sunday, the third XI begin their campaign away to Sedgefield.
