ARYAN Lakra is poised to feature as Sandford overseas player again next season for another crack at winning the Tolchards DCL Premier Division title.

Sandford, Premier winners in 2023, finished second in 2024 behind Bradninch & Kentisbeare, despite an impressive set of stats from the 23-year-old Indian, who is now based in the United Arab Emirates.

No one took more than the 37 Premier Division wickets Lakra claimed in 2024, although Paignton’s Abhay Negri had exactly the same at a fractionally lower average. Next best were Bradninch & Kentibeare spinner Josh Farley and Sandford captain Jackson Thompson with 36 each.  

Lakra also made it into the Premier Division’s top 20 batting stats. His 454 league runs placed him 13th in the aggregates. With stats like that it is no wonder skipper Thompson wants him back.

“Aryan has been phenomenal, not just on the pitch but off it too,” said Thompson. 

“Aside from being the joint highest wicket taker, Aryan built a great reputation among the juniors and parents. He got fully involved with the coaching and training and also inspired our youngsters. This is a huge reason for having an overseas player.”

Lakra – ‘Ary’ to clubmates – had the tough task of following Dikshu Negi in the overseas role at Creedy Park. Negi scored 810 runs and took 43 wickets in the previous, title-winning season.

Said Thompson: “Considering what Dikshu achieved the year before, filling in those shoes was always going to be a big ask. 

“Ary did that well in most respects. He knows batting is something he wants to make waves in next year and he’s working hard and knows what to expect. 

“Ary’s attitude and work ethic also stood out and when he expressed interest to return it was a no-brainier for us.”