Late decision leaves Adie in a quandry
New Lymington skipper Adie Hunt has been presented with a selection headache before the first ball of the 2005 season has even been bowled. His two new signings from Langley Manor - Ahmed Khan and Azeem Hammid - have dropped an eleventh hour bombshell by deciding not to join the club. Azeem is going to play to OTs and Ahmed hasn't decided due to travel difficulties from his Southampton home. The pair had attended the majority of indoor nets and Azeem had even played in the two pre-season friendlies at South Wilts and Bashley. Adie, though, was remaining philosophical. "Although both Az and Ahmed have a great deal of potential and we shall obviously miss their input, at least it will give some of our young local players a chance to prove themselves this season."

The loss of the pair means that Adie Hunt has to re-jig his starting XI ahead of tomorrow's opening league fixture at St Cross. Already missing was another new signing Mark Burrett who plays his final football match of the season for Ringwood Town tomorrow. On the plus side, Australian Pete Smith is champing at the bit, while young spinner Sam Westcott will be also be hoping to impress on his Southern League debut. Veteran batsman Neil Trestrail has been recalled to the side to add some experience to the middle-order, while Dave Griffiths - fresh from his starring performance on the football field recently - may also be included. Christian Pain and Dominic Norton will fight it out to see who shares the new ball with paceman Smith.

It remains to be seen if St Cross's Royal Greenjackets Ground in Winchester is in a playable condition after this week's heavy showers. The pitch traditionally suffers more than most in wet weather due to its proximity to the River Itchen.

Sunday Friendly
Lymington travel to Hursley Park on Sunday for a friendly fixture. Meg Gannaway, who recently resigned as Sunday captain after 15 years in the post, will be able to enjoy the match without the hassle of having to move the fielders and make important bowling changes. No change there then!

TP