But captain, catalyst and all rounder Ryan Tingle has recognised the need to build a younger team around him, aiming to recruit from the Dearne Valley and South Yorkshire area.

The first major signing of the year is Aussie Richard Green from Newcastle 1st Grade cricket a hard hitting batsman and slow bowler, an exciting prospect for cricket followers.

Last year's opening batsmen Joe Pratt and John Chantry are vying for the opening spots with competition from Andy Fairclough and Scott Hibdett should Scott decide to accept the challenge after a winter ankle operation.

Joe starts his 25th season at the club, a really great servant and one of the areas leading run scorer.

Exciting prospect 19-year-old Rafique Hussain can bat anywhere in the top 5 and is looking to dominate more with his natural talent. Rafique is one of a number of Rotherham Pakistanis who have joined the club in the last ten years and is joined by Rizwan Ali, an exciting young swing bowler from Wentworth.

New recruit Gary Proudly is joining the club from Grimethorpe of the Pontefract League as a wicket keeper and batsman, much to the relief of long serving Andy Booth who is looking to drop to the seconds with brother Graham.