Opening batsman Ben Barrow was elected Netherfield Cricket Club's new First Team skipper for the 2016 campaign following a players' meeting held at Parkside Road.

Ben, who was the vice-Captain last season, replaces Marc Brown, who has rejoined Carlisle following three successful seasons at the Parkside Road outfit.

Barrow, who opens the batting for Netherfield, has been at the club since he was a junior and has worked his way through the ranks to become a regular in the First Team.

In an exclusive interview, Ben gave his thoughts on becoming the Captain, and talked about his aims and aspirations for the future.

“I am very proud to be named the new Captain of Netherfield Cricket Club. I have played at the club all my life and have represented every team. I feel privileged to captain the First Team. It's something am really looking forward to getting started with.

"I believe we have some very talented players, although we have to start proving this week in, week out.

"Obviously a lot also comes down to the recruitment over the winter months. I'd like to see Netherfield play a tougher brand of cricket.

"At times we have been a side who are capable of beating any team on our day. However, at the same time, we end up losing to sides we should be beating.

"We have lost Marc Brown to Carlisle. He will be a big loss on and off the field. He is a quality batsman and a big character.

"It looks like there could be changes with regards to the overseas situation however nothing has been confirmed.

"I look forward to seeing Ben Phillips back at the club. Ben has moved back to the area, and is looking forward to carrying on the good work he did for us back in 2014. He knows the club, as well as the lads, and offers a lot with bat and ball, and he is also an exceptional fielder.

"We are working very hard with our recruitment to find the right players from overseas as well as locally.

"At this stage I don’t want to give too much away, however I am hopeful we will be able to announce something soon.

"As a club I'd like to see all four teams improve. The amount of trophies we won as a group last season was outstanding.

"However we will strive for more. Last year it was great to see the club in a strong position from a social aspect. This is something I want to continue, with all players getting involved in events and supporting the other sides."

* Netherfield will host East Lancashire Cricket Club in a pre-season friendly on Saturday, April 9, 2016.

The season starts on Saturday, April 16, as Netherfield open at home to St Anne's.