PHOENIX

• Captain: Conor Kelly
• Overseas Professional: Riaan Jeggels
• Players in: Riaan Jeggels (Southth Africa), Andrew Leonard (Pembroke), Steve Davis (Burwood Briars, Sydney), Nick James (UK)
• Players out: Osama Kahn (The Hills)
• Young player(s) to watch – Tom & Rory Anders

Phoenix are under no illusion as to the challenge facing them this year in a very strong Division One following their promotion last season.

The have made some interesting signings over the close season, with South African Riaan Jeggels joining as their overseas professional. The South African is a powerful top order bat who has played for Eastern Province.

Other acquisitions include Australian Steve Davis who is a left arm swing bowler and from the UK comes Nick James, who is a batsman/legspinner. James had played a couple of county 2nd XI games with Leicestershire.

Closer to home leg-spinner Andrew Leonard makes the switch from Pembroke.

Coach Matt Lunson spoke about the prospects for the forthcoming season saying: "The club is working to build solid foundations in all areas. The preparation of its players and their commitment to their cricket is better than it’s ever been and we expect to reap some rewards for that.

"We expect another year of solid development from both Anders brothers as they mature further along with the rest of our talented teenagers as they push for first team opportunities themselves."

It going to be difficult for Phoenix to survive in the top flight but with major contributions from their new players, they may just have enough quality to pull it off.