FILLEIGH are in the nets early preparing for their first season in the Tolchards Devon League B Division.

Last September’s play-off win over Alphington earned Filleigh a B Division place for the first time.

Filleigh, who only joined the Devon League in 2009, have risen steadily through the divisions thanks to three promotions since 2011.

All three promotion campaigns have been led by skipper Simon Prideaux, who took over in 2011 and has been at the helm ever since.

Prideaux knows B Division cricket will be a challenge for his side and wants them properly prepared.

“It will be the highest level of cricket we have played at and we want to hit the ground running,” said Prideaux.

“What we don’t want is another season when we start slowly and have to win a load of games.

“That’s why we have started nets early at West Buckand School and will be moving outdoors at the end of the month.”

Filleigh won seven on the trot in the second half of last season to shoot up the table from third bottom to runners-up and reach the play-offs, which they won too!

For any potential joiners, Filleigh are practicing at the school on Sunday nights between 6.30-7.30pm.

Aussie Justin Saker, who scored 761 runs at an average of 47.56 with four 50s and two tons, is returning to Filleigh this summer.

Jas Kalsi, who re-signed from North Devon last season, has committed to the club for another campaign.

Back for 2017 is early order batsman Rob Collier, who has been with Braunton for the past three seasons.

Collier left in search of cricket at a higher level, but has returned to Filleigh now Braunton have dropped below them on the league ladder.