BRACKNELL Cricket Club are to rely on the younger generation in a bid to change their fortunes, writes Dave Wright.

The Larges Lane outfit, once among the strongest clubs in Berkshire, have been in decline in recent years and, following relegation last season, now find themselves in Division 5b of the Thames Valley League.

And in their opening fixture last Saturday they were on the receiving end of a hammering at the hands of Reading 3rds.

However, there is a general feeling of optimism at Bracknell with first-team captain Paul Bray insisting: “We are all confident we will turn things around and the future is looking bright. There is a really good vibe around the club at the moment.”

He told the News: “A lot has been happening off the field to improve the facilities.

“We received an ECB grant last year which we put towards colts equipment and a bowling machine. This season we have got enough for refurbishment for the clubhouse and new nets which are going in.

“We have invested heavily into colts, as in recent years we have really been lacking in a colts section.

“This was mainly due to a lack of manpower, but we now have five or six coaches at Level Two among club members and we are also looking into getting outside support.”

Bracknell’s second team are playing in Division 7a after winning the 8a title last season.

“An advantage of having both teams playing just two divisions apart is that colts can play for the twos and know that if they perform well they will be considered for the first team, but that also applies to all players at the club,” added Bray.

“Despite the result (at Reading) I feel we have the strongest first team we have had for some years and it will continue to improve.

“I think a lot of people lost enjoying their cricket last season, but I don’t think that will be the case again this year.

“The aim is promotion for the first team as I feel we should be playing in Division Four at least, and consolidation for the 2nds.”

Bracknell’s younger generation are also taking on more responsibility within the club, with 28-year-old Bray also their vice-chairman.

“I have been with the club since a young boy,” he said.

“My dad (John) was here previously and took a thousand wickets and was also chairman for quite a while as well.

“He is quite chuffed that I am now first-team captain.”

“Brett Martindale plays for the twos and is also club chairman, so with him and myself as vice-chairman we are filtering younger blood throughout the club and, as I said earlier, there is definitely a positive vibe about the place.”

Bray was speaking after Bracknell had suffered a 118-run defeat to Reading 3rds at Sonning Lane on Saturday after being shot out for just 124.

“This was disappointing,” added Bray. “We fielded very well up to the drinks break, but afterwards we gave them about 40 too many runs and then we showed a general lack of concentration with the bat.

“So we will need to get back in the nets this week to practice batting and come back fighting against Slough 4ths at home next Saturday.”