Thomas makes return journey to Barnstaple & Pilton after five seasons in the Sandhills

James Thomas, who will be hitting out like this for Barnstaple & Pilton in 2022

By CONRAD SUTCLIFFE

BARNSTAPLE & Pilton have re-signed James Thomas from near neighbours North Devon for the upcoming campaign in the Tolchards DCL D Division East.

Thomas left Raleigh Meadow in 2017 for Instow in search of Premier Division cricket. After five summers in the Sandhills, and a preponderance of 2ndXI cricket, he has made the return journey.

Thomas found first-team opportunities limited at Instow and found himself playing against his former clubmates for four of his five seasons there. Forty-one of his 50 league games were in the second team.James Thomas, who has rejoined Barnstaple & Pilton | Photo: Fiona Tyson

A respectable batting average of exactly 30 in 2ndXI cricket for North Devon makes Thomas an attractive signing for Barnstaple & Pilton.

B&P reached week nine of an 18-game season without winning a match last season – two fixtures were called off – and regularly failed to reach 200 runs and maximum batting points.

Some additional firepower in the batting order is a must to improve on last season’s long and ultimately successful fight to avoid relegation. 

Lee Cole, the B&P captain, gave Thomas a warm welcome back to his first club.

“Signing James from North Devon has given us a boost,” said Cole.

“James started out as a colt with us then progressed to our first team before heading to North Devon.

“No players have left so hopefully we can improve on last season and continue to improve as a club.

“With everyone available competition for places will be competitive, which is something we have missed and could leave me with a few selection problems.”

Barnstaple & Pilton are netting at in the sports hall at Park School in Barnstaple and will continue on March 4, March 11 and April 1 (7-8.30pm).

Said Cole: “Pre-season nets have started and are going well with numbers looking good for the season.”