AS the new season approaches, Grappenhall Cricket Club have a new man at the helm to steer them through the campaign.

The Broad Lane side have appointed Simon Kellett as their coach and he has been working with the side throughout the winter.

Kellett played county cricket for Yorkshire but had an extensive career in the minor counties game with Cambridgeshire and will be responsible for all senior coaching sessions as well as working with the club’s juniors on occasion.

After winning promotion in 2016, the playing staff remains largely the same as the one that helped Grappers consolidate their place in the Cheshire County Cricket League’s Premier Division last season.

However, the club have decided not to bring in an overseas player, the first time they have done so for 10 years.

Australian all-rounder Owen Lynch was the overseas player at Broad Lane last year.

Adam Roylance retains his position as first-team captain, while the seconds will be led by opening bowler Ross Arrowsmith as they return to the 2nd XI Premier Division.

David Seed will once again lead the club’s third team.

The season kicks off on Saturday, April 21, and the firsts get underway with a trip to Bramhall while the seconds host Hyde.

The thirds do not begin their campaign until Sunday, April 29, when they travel to face their Nantwich counterparts.