MARC Brown has been selected as Netherfield Cricket Club's captain for a third consecutive season.

The skipper was the Parkside Road club's leading run scorer last year with an average of 46.5.

And with new professional Dieter Klein on board, Brown is looking forward to the season opener against champions Blackpool on April 18.

"I have thoroughly enjoyed the last two seasons as captain of a fantastic bunch of lads so it was a very easy decision to continue in the role as captain," he said. "Everyone plays cricket in the right way and they are a pleasure to lead. The unity and commitment of the group was first class during 2014 and hopefully we can progress into a more consistent side for this campaign.

"We have some very good young players who are learning each year so if we keep building as a team the rewards could be there this season."

Meanwhile, Neil McDonnell has taken over Andy Earl as captain of the third team.

McDonell begins his second season at the club after returning in 2014 and knows of the challenges that lie ahead following on from their unbeaten 2014 campaign.

"Last year was my first year back at Netherfield after a few years and it had felt like I had never been away," he said. "We had great success under Andy last year so I have big boots to fill.

"Hopefully we can carry on the great team spirit we built up and take that into each game.

"We had a good mix of youth and experience last year which seemed to bind the team together so hopefully that will be the case again."

Scott Clement will continue as second team captain while Martin Boyd retains his stewardship of the fourth team.