HATHERLEIGH are having to look for another overseas player for the 2019 campaign back in the A Division after their first choice cried off.

Hatherleigh are not saying who they had contracted as their overseas player, other than he is a South African who has acquired a shoulder injury in recent weeks.

Mark Lake, the Hatherleigh captain, said an announcement about a replacement is due within a matter of days. He added: “Another player is close to signing but the deal is not done and finalised yet.”

Zimbabwean Zipho Zondo, who scored more than 1,000 runs in all games, was Hatherleigh’s overseas player last summer.

Simon Gillespie, who only played five Premier Division games in Hatherleigh’s season back in the top flight, has assured Lake he is going to play more regularly this season.

“Hopefully, we are building a bigger and stronger squad for the season ahead,” said Lake.

Nets are booked for Shebbear College on Monday evenings. Times are 6-7.30 for ladies and younger age groups with adult and older colts between 7.30-9pm.