DAN Lincoln believes he can help rebuild Finchampstead’s 1st XI after seeing several players leave before the start of the new season, writes Dave Wright.

Only three of the side which played in the final game of last season took to the field against Thame Town in the opening Home Counties Premier League fixture last Saturday – a match which brought a 24-run defeat despite a fine knock of 73 from new skipper Lincoln in his side’s total of 186.

He admits it was “very tough” losing so many players, but says he is happy with those who have stayed as well as those who have stepped up from other clubs.

“They all seem good club men, which is important.

“We have different kind of players than before and they are a good mix of bowlers and batters.

“I think we will be an entertaining side to watch. That’s the way I have always played my sport.

“There may be times we will be bowled out cheaply, but other times we will all come off and make some big scores.

“That’s how I want to make it this season – enjoyable. I am all for encouraging ‘bums-on-seats’ in sport.”

Berkshire county player Lincoln added: “We have a few good youngsters around at the club. At the moment they are not experienced enough, but that is like anything in sport, you don’t get experienced until you are thrown into the deep end.

“There will come a time when they will get a chance due to unavailability or lack of form from those in the first team.

“Losing so many good players has come as a big blow to the club, but we will rebuild and move on.”