New signings can push Warriors further

8:44am Friday 9th May 2008

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WYCOMBE think they have ironed out the crease that ran through their season last year and the arrival of top-order trio Matthew Eyles, David Cranfield-Thompson and Leo Taylor should drive their batting concerns to the boundary.

Director of cricket and new captain Keith Newell said: "We never lost because of bowling last year, it was down to our batting every time. We struggled to put runs on the board but we've strengthened in that department now."

Eyles was a key player when Wycombe won the Home Counties Division One title in 2005 before defecting to Gerrards Cross last season, where he averaged more than 50.

His return to Wycombe, and that of Bucks County player Cranfield-Thompson, is as big a coup for Newell as it is a blow for his brother Jon, the captain of Gerrards Cross.

The Wycombe man said: "I've been a bit naughty there, but Matthew Eyles is Matthew Eyles. He just accumulates runs. He won't destroy teams, we've got other players to do that, but we needed someone to stay at the crease and gel the innings together."

Australian seam bowler Tim Cece completes the incomings.

Newell said: "We've got a stronger squad than we did last year, but so has everyone. Teams don't get worse in the winter."

Wycombe start at Radlett tomorrow.

Newell said: "The first six games or so set you up for the season, so it's very important you get a good start.

"But Radlett finished above us last season and I'm sure they're saying the same things to their local paper."