HADLEIGH & Thundersley skipper Sam Handley is setting his sights high again this season.

Hadleigh finished fourth in the Premier Division last time around.

And Handley wants his team to be up towards the top of the table this term.

“I have high hopes for the season and I’m not going to shy away from admitting that,” said Handley.

“We have brought in some players to help strengthen the squad and coming off a year where current players improved immensely I think we are close to having every base covered.

“I actually think last year was the first year we have been disappointed at finishing fourth.

“That’s why I feel like this year is massive for us.

“As a squad we feel like we left a lot of points out on the pitch last season so I’m hoping that will really motivate the lads this year to give it a real go.”

Hadleigh have also recruited well since last season with South African Cam Sheckleton joining the club along with Carl Lees from Hutton.

And the duo were both in line to make their debut against Hornchurch before the match was abandoned due to the wet weather.

“At this current moment we have brought in a couple of new faces that would have featured at the weekend,” said Handley.

“Cam Shekleton is our overseas professional from South Africa and he’s a very talented wicket keeper/batter.

“He has fitted in really well too.

“He is excited to get out on the pitch and contribute for the team. “Carl Lees has also joined from Hutton.

“I’ve known Carl for years having played against him for various teams and he will bring us more options on the batting front.”

And Handley is also looking forward to working alongside a new vice captain.

“Olly Smith will be vice captaining the side this year,” said Handley.

“Olly has done tremendous work for the club on and off the pitch in recent years.

“I’m excited for us to build a strong partnership together for the upcoming years.”

And Handley is hoping the season can finally get going against Hutton on Saturday after being left frustrated by last weekend’s wash-out.

“It’s very frustrating and it feels like we will never play a game at this stage,”said Handley.

“Fingers crossed we can get this season underway with our game against Hutton this Saturday.

“If last season’s match up is anything to go by it will be a great game as well.”