Netherfield Cricket Club captain Ben Barrow has spoken of the team's excitement and determination as his side prepare to begin the defence of The Northern Premier Cricket League Title later this month.

Netherfield, who won their first Northern League title since 2008, have had a proactive off season, both on and off the pitch, with the acquisition of New Zealand professional Jack Boyle as well as the signing of New Zealand overseas amateur Harrison Cox.

The Parkside Road outfit have also signed former Torrisholme captain Matt Jackson, along with Finlay Richardson and Marcus Hill who have both joined from Kendal CC.

“The club as a whole is very excited ahead of the 2018 season," said Barrow. "Pre-season training has been fantastic we have had 25-30 players training consistently over the last few months.

"All four teams want to win their respective league. With the amount of talent that we possess throughout the club we will be hoping to go well in the cup competitions, starting with the 2nd team Cumbria Cup final that needs to be replayed from last season.

"From a first team point of view, the aim is to defend the title in what is a very competitive league while there is a determination to do well in The National Knockout where we will play Ormskirk, while we face Ramsbottom in the second round of The Lancashire Cup.

"The Ormskirk tie is one in which the players are excited about. Ormskirk have been the main stay of Club Cricket for the past five years and for us we want to show that we can compete and do well against top quality teams. On top of which continuing to do well in The Twenty-20 Competition is also important. The players have set the benchmark and want to continue their progression in that respective competition."

Barrow added: "Off the pitch we have signed Matt Jackson from Torrisholme. Matt has been their leader and main stay of their attack for the past 10 years. We also welcome both Finlay Richardson and Marcus Hill from Kendal. Both players have a lot of talent and potential. "There will also be other players joining after they finish their terms at school/university.

A lot of work has gone into gaining new sponsors while we also have a new coloured kit for which I would like to thank Firehouse, Jewsons, Lloyd South Lakes BMW, SW Plumbing and Heating and Cracking Spread for sponsoring.

"We will have a sponsor’s day on the 27 May to unveil our new kit ahead of the T20 double header at Netherfield against Barrow and Penrith.

"Finally, we have our new player sponsorship package which you can see on our website. It really is a great package and most players have secured sponsorship. Please check out our twitter and website take a look at our players sponsors. We think it is vitally important to engage with local businesses and with our huge social media presence hope to help businesses.”