Northwood

Last season: Ninth

Captain: Ben Knowles

Ins: Srikanth

Outs: Peter Frost (Harpenden)

Key Man: Raj Latchman: The wily left-arm spinner has proved the scourge of many batsman in the division and his form will be crucial to Northwood's success.

Verdict: Ben Knowles takes over as captain after Anthony Pritchard's decision to call time on his three-year reign, and he is charged with the reponsiblity of masterminding Northwood's anticipated promotion push.

The 25-year-old all-rounder has a sound track record having steered Northwood to the Chess Valley League title two seasons ago but is fully aware the marathon of the league season is a much stiffer proposition.

"If we get off to a good start then I think we can have a good season," said Knowles. "We have a good, well-balanced team and the spirit in the side is very good. There is a lot of talent in the side, it's just a question of producing it on a consistent basis."

Knowles, along with his brother Paul, and Anthony Pritchard will head up the seam attack which has been hit by the loss of strike bowler Peter Frost.

However, expect the majority of the overs to be bowled by the exiciting spin duo of Latchman and new Indian recruit Srikanth.

Srikanth will also lend support to the batting line-up which, hit by Steve Lewis' decision to captain the second XI, is likely to rely heavily on the runs supplied by Steve and Nigel Hussey.

Other teams: second XI - Division Six; third XI - Division 11.

Ground: Ducks Hill Road, Rickmansworth Road, Northwood. Tel: 01923 822001.

Directions: Between Rickmansworth and Pinner on corner of Rickmansworth Road and Ducks Hill Road.