THE CRICKET season has come around quickly – and it is one that Rowledge look ahead to with much promise.
Having finished fifth last season, the Southern Premier League Division One looks even more competitive this season, with some eye-catching match-ups.
Rowledge start their season away against Liphook on May 7, followed by the eagerly-anticipated return of Basingstoke at home on the May 14, followed by a trip to Alton on May 21.
The side will once again contain a host of youngsters.
While they have lost Sam Plater, the side welcome South African off-spin all-rounder Ash-Lee Harvey. The 20-year-old will complement the spin trio of David Lloyd, Ollie Baker and Ryan Littlewood.
The side will be without university trio Zac Le Roux, Jonty Sebborn and Will Ryman for much of the first part of the season, and it will be up to seasoned campaigners Ricky Yates and Jake Wish to step up to the mark.
The squad will have the experience of seamer Richard Forbes in and around the squad and his part could prove to be important with the unknown availability at this stage of Ethan Martin because of county commitments.
The 2021 season saw the emergence of 16-year-old Olly Ryman and, fresh from his encouraging season with Farnham Town Football Club, he will be looking forward to making an impact on the SPL circuit once again.
It could be the year for promising youngsters Max Witney and Bertie Chilcott to make their mark, as they have huge potential.
The experienced Ben Wish will once again be keeping wicket.
Rowledge have the benefit of an earlier start to the season as they start their National Village Cup campaign at home on April 24 against Ottershaw.
Their Southern Premier League T20 campaign starts on Sunday, June 12 when they host Andover.
The second XI will once again be captained by experienced duo Chris Yates Jnr and Ian Metcalfe.
They start their season in Hampshire League Division 2 on May 7 at home against Shrewton.
The third XI have the new captaincy team of Chris Norris and Rupert Preece, with the side being the start of the transition of many youngsters into senior cricket.