PREPARATIONS for the 2015 cricket season are in full swing with exciting times ahead on and off the field for Barnards Green.

There is a change of first XI captain on the pitch as opening batsman George Rhodes, the son of Worcestershire director of cricket Steve, takes over from Andy Ford.

Former skipper Ford has stepped down due to work commitments but remains a valued member of the team.

The North End Lane outfit welcome back all-rounder Phil Harris, who rejoins after two seasons playing in Wales, to be appointed club captain.

There are two more notable additions to the squad with Worcestershire academy’s Josh Tongue joining from Bromyard after the all-rounder moved to Malvern.

Nathan Newport, whose father is ex-England bowler Phil, has signed from Barnt Green, and the addition of the top-order batsman makes it three sons of ex-County players in the ranks.

The firsts and seconds continue in Birmingham and District Premier League Divisions One and Two South respectively.

Meanwhile, the promoted thirds and fourths will tackle Worcestershire League Division Four with confidence after unbeaten 2014 campaigns.

Green have also entered the Birmingham League’s T20 competition and the England and Wales Cricket Board National T20, as well as the County Cup after reaching the semi-finals last season.

The firsts start their league programme at home to Moseley on Saturday, April 25.

Green’s junior section boasts 2014 county champions as the under-11s won the T20 nine-a-side and this year will play as under-12s in the Premier League.

The club will run teams from under-nines upwards.

Inline Engineering, of Spring Lane South, have agreed a third year as main sponsor of Green.

There are also a series of fundraising events planned throughout 2015 to support the senior and junior teams.

The club are looking for more sponsors and interested firms are asked to get in touch.

Green continue to work towards adding strength and depth to the playing roster and welcome new players to any of their five adult teams or the juniors section.

Senior winter nets start next Wednesday at Malvern College from 8pm to 10pm with all players encouraged to attend.

Junior winter nets begin on Thursday, March 12 at the same venue from 6pm to 7pm for under-10s and from 7pm to 8pm for under-11s to 13s.