AMERSHAM CC have undergone a quite revolution this winter in a bid to win promotion to the Home Counties League next season.

They only just avoided dropping out of Division One of the Thames Valley League last year, but the club has acted swiftly to strengthen during the close season.

One major development is the merger with Little Kingshill CC, enabling the club to offer four Saturday sides and two Sunday teams, with the third and fourth team matches taking place at Little Kingshill’s ground.

It is hoped that move with give the club greater strength in depth in the long term, but in the short term two significant appointments could ignite the team this summer.

First, Bruce Friderichs has been appointed head coach-come-player, while the club has also signed 23-year-old left armer Luke Douglas from Perth, Australia.

Both players have proven quality, with Friderichs a well-known force after years at Kew and Ealing, while Douglas plays for the first grade side at Mount Lawley Cricket Club.

Amersham captain Luke Jackson said: “These are two exciting additions to the club.

“Bruce is well known to us after scoring heavily against us on many occasions and in addition to his influence on the field his work leading and developing the coaching side of the club will be a great boost to all our cricketers.

“Luke will bring a variety and depth to our bowling attack, and a level of control over games which will be invaluable.”

Meanwhile, the club has also launched a major campaign to raise funds to improve the facilities at Shardeloes, left.

Junior nets start on February 2 at Dr Challoner’s Grammar School with senior nets following on February 5.

New players are welcome. Seniors call Renny Adams on 07732 096198. Juniors call David Sidebottom on 07860 600253