DAN Lincoln is predicting more exciting times ahead for Finchampstead CC as they start their defence of the Home Counties Premier League title at home to Oxford on Saturday (11am).

“We have Jandre (Coetzee) back, there are a couple of new signings and lots of youngsters coming through,” said the batting star.

“Obviously, we are all looking forward to getting started and the aim is to retain the title. But like last year, we will just be taking every game as it comes.”

Lincoln added: “There is a great team spirit and that helps to make us successful. It runs through the whole club.

“It is an exciting time to be a Finchampstead player. They are a great bunch of lads and we all enjoy being together.”

Lincoln will go into the cricket season on a high following a memorable Bank Holiday weekend.

On Sunday he scored 43 runs during Berkshire’s 44-run victory over Devon at Henley in the Unicorns Trophy.

The 21-year-old then swapped his whites for soccer kit to play in goal for Bognor Town against Dulwich Hamlet in their Ryman Premier League play-off. And the Rocks triumphed 2-1 to gain promotion to National League South.

“Yes, it was a really good weekend for me,” he told the News.

“I love my sport and I am very lucky to play both cricket and football at a decent level.”

Former Reading FC youngster Lincoln still dreams of signing for a Football League club and, after an impressive season with Bognor, a couple of clubs have expressed an interest.

“I hope something comes up in the summer,” he said. “I know there are few clubs – league and non-league – interested, but we will have to see how things go.”