HASLINGTON are aiming to make their fresh start pay off, as five South Cheshire teams compete for honours in Division One.
Clay Lane chiefs decided to quit the Pipe-master League last year, and plan to plough resources into equipment and coaching, rather than paying an expensive overseas professional.
Led by captain Jon Phipps, they must start in Division Three of the Alliance, but have high hopes for the future. Spokesman Ken Lightfoot said: 'It is extremely hard work to raise funds and we no longer want to see increasingly large amounts spent on paying a professional. It did not make sense and could not be sustained or justified.
'While the decision means initially dropping down the divisions on the playing front, it will create opportunities for outstanding junior players to flourish as a few of last year's senior players have decided to leave.'
A new scorebox has been purchased, new practice nets will be installed, and funds are now available to increase the coaching staff. The junior section boasts more than 170 play-ers at U9-U17 level.
Senior practice night is Tuesday (6.30pm), while juniors meet on Fridays (6.30pm). For information call Richard Brown on 07977 446113.
Also in Division Three, AUDLEM are looking to bounce back at the first attempt.
After being relegated last season, a club spokesman insisted: 'Preparations have gone better than anyone expected. With the junior section being reestablished and a new management team in place, there is a buzz of excitement around the place.'
Chris Shenton is new captain, with last year's skipper Steve Swallow now vice-captain. Former Woore man John Wainwright will lead the 2nds.
New recruits include off-spinner Lyndon Woodcock, seamer Graham Jones, wicket-keeper/batsman Paul Dean, while Steve Farnell has returned to the club.
Anyone interested in cricket at Audlem can contact Steve Swallow (seniors) on 07734 190296 or Simon Banks (juniors) on 07764 202752.
In Division One, SANDBACH are aiming to get off to a flyer. A poor start cost the Hind Heath Road outfit dearly last term, and spokesman Jon Fox said: 'We're hoping for a much more positive start to this season, and want to regain our place in the Meller Braggins League.'
Skippered by James Oddy, Sandbach welcome Andy Williams and Jason Latham back after they did not feature last year. Tim Coppenhall will lead the 2nds. At junior level, U9, U11 and U13 teams will be in action on Sundays. Training begins on Friday at 6pm.
ASTON hope to stabilise after narrowly avoiding relegation last term.
Taking an unusual approach, they intend to rotate the captaincy, starting with Gary Richardson. Richie Pennock is back after a season away, while the 2nds will be led by Neil Cammish.
The club's new junior section is flourishing, with 52 signing up in the first year. And parents have given the pavilion a facelift in time for the 2007 campaign.
HOLMES CHAPEL players have boosted the club by staying on despite last year's relegation from the Meller Braggins League.
And with Will Cummins returning to the Victoria Avenue club as captain after a spell at Winnington Park, their prospects look good. Joe Stimpson is vice captain. The 2nds will be captained by Will's dad, Martin Cummins.
A club spokesman said: 'We feel Will's leadership and inspiration will be valuable to us.'
Outdoor nets got underway last night, and will continue every Tuesday and Thursday evening throughout the season.
BUNBURY are hoping to make an impact in the promotion race after just falling short last ter m.
