In just under two months time a Clevedon Cricket side full of new faces and some returning names will grace North Parade in Bath to defend their WEPL one title.

With the departure of club captain Jake Lintott and coach Piers Mcbride, it was down to the club to appoint their replacements.

With 17 WEPL one wickets and a stunning 4/31 against Cheltenham up Dial Hill, Cam Harding has taken the mantle of first team captain.

It is a challenge that Harding said he is relishing.

Making his debut as a captain for the first time in senior cricket, he said it will be a “different kettle of fish” to his other experiences.

We sat down with Cam ahead to ask him about his thoughts ahead of the new season.

Any nerves ahead of the new season with your role?

Harding – A little bit, with it being my first season as captain in senior cricket. It will be a different kettle of fish. With me only being 20, I have only played 3-4 seasons of WEPL cricket. It will be difficult but I’m looking forward it.

Piers gone to Bridgwater. How do you think that will change things?

Harding - As much as it’s a bad thing, it could be a fresh start. Maybe a new lease of life. We’re a young side, so it is important we relax. We can set our own targets as opposed to having ones given to you. See what works and what doesn’t as a team.

Strengths ahead of the new season?

Harding – We have youngsters who are learning their craft. Quality cricketers making their way in the game. It is exciting to see them come through. We have massive strength in bowling with Horton, Harding, Carps, Luke Pearson-Taylor, and Josh Breed who is joining us from Cheltenham.

Ambitions for the 2022 season?

Harding - I think as a team we’ve got to come together and see what’s realistic. We have to appreciate we have lost three strong players in, Williams, Ellison and Lintott. However, we’ve got a good opportunity to challenge the big teams. We won the league last year when arguably other clubs had better squads. We will take it as it comes with no expectations of doing too much whilst still fighting for each other.

Favourite thing about Clevedon CC?

Harding - The atmosphere is mental. On a good sunny day, the loud voices, beers flowing. I enjoy that side of it. The social side, with plenty of locals, they come hand in hand. There aren’t many places better to be on a hot summers day.

Clevedon CC 1XI travel to North Parade to take on Bath in their WEPL opener on Saturday, May 7th.