Reflecting the "new-broom" approach in the senior sides, LCC 2nd XI have a renewed dynamic going into the season, next weekend.

The return of Captain David Knight (in his second season as captain, after his 2020 covid-enforced hiatus) will be like having a new player.

"We will be like cattle racing out of the barn, after being let out of winter confinement onto the lush pastures of the Wakefield Road turf" enthused the ebullient Knight - "apart from the fact we are away at Woodlands on the 17th April".

Knight will be supported by Vice Captain Evan Edwards.

There will be some new "new faces" and some new "old" ones in the squad.

Conor Butterworth – 17 year old Seam Bowler, whom we welcome to the club. Signed from Woodlands CC ( whose main Junior experience was with Barkisland CC) .

Matthew Sumpner – Left arm opening bowler. A junior at LCC (part of U15s 2013 League Winners & U17s 2015 League/Cup Runners Up). Returns to the club for this season, after completing his university career.

Michael Brooke – Perhaps familiar to some at the club! The former Captain and opening batsman makes a welcome return to the fold after a 1 year sabbatical with Northowram Fields CC. He will be looking forward to having the crowds back, so there is someone to talk to, whilst fielding at 3rd Man.

The balance of the team will have the usual mainstays in the form of Marcus Kelly and Richard Thompson, a raft of juniors who have migrated through the ranks and (on the odd occasion when available) the services of James Horne, Rhys Jowett and Jonathan Wilson to provide senior mentorship.

The side won't understimate the ongoing challenge of playing in the top division of the Second Teams BCL competition, but are relishing their return to cricket.