2025 PREVIEWS: Neston’s David Hurst hopes new signings can inspire climb up Cheshire League table

Neston skipper David Hurst is aiming high after an underwhelming 2024 season.

The Cheshire County Cricket League side only escaped relegation on the last day of last season, a relief but a far cry from their lofty ambitions.

Now Hurst believes with some key players back from injury – and some new arrivals – his side is ready for a top four push. 

He said: “I’m looking to the top four. Why not? 

“That’s the aim – but a top half finish would be the absolute minimum.

“It was a strange one last year – lots of players couldn’t play and we were unfortunate with injuries.”

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Hurst has moved to strengthen all areas of the team after bidding farewell to batters Luke Camden and South African Yusuf Ravat, and experienced seamer Ash Davies.

Camden will return to Upton for their Division Two campaign, while Davies has signed for Prem rivals Chester Boughton Hall.

“Luke has played for us for 10 seasons at least and only managed two games for us last year,” said Hurst.

“Hopefully he gets his spark back for cricket. He’s been fantastic for us, scored probably 8,000 runs.”

Hoping to replace Camden’s runs will be Bryce Jose, a 19-year-old wicketkeeper-batter signed from the Huddersfield league, where he averaged over 60.

Dom Smith will also return to Neston’s top order after two years with Hornsey in Middlesex. 

With the ball, Hurst hopes Matthew Stewart, re-signed permanently from Harrogate after a brief spell on the Wirral last year, can help fill the gap vacated by Davies.

Hurst added: “I’m really happy with the signings with made. I’m hoping for another good year with the bat and we’ve got some brilliant youngsters coming through. 

“They’ll be a year older this year, more experienced.”

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The Cheshire league experimented last year with a hybrid format – playing half the season as 55-over cricket with the draw on the table, and half as limited overs win-loss games.

Hurst was happy with how it went.

He said: “I like it as a captain, it gives you more to think about and you’ve got to have five bowlers. 

“A lot of the youngsters in particular prefer playing in the coloured clothing with the pink ball and the power plays, so I think it was well received from our lads and I’m happy they’re continuing with it.”

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