Pennell is relishing a fresh challenge
Pelsall skipper Dan Pennell is expecting a step up in standard this summer – despite his side dropping down to the South Staffs County League.
Pennell feels the league restructure will result in some highly-competitive matches.
“With the restructure this will be the best standard we have played for seven or eight years,” he said. “There are four teams who were in Birmingham League Division Two last season and three from Division Three plus the top five from last year’s Staffs Clubs.
“We were in Division Three and I don’t think there is any difference between that and the top clubs in the Staffs Clubs.
“I don’t think anyone can predict how things are going to go but the cricket will be very competitive.
“But we are hoping to be punching up at the top end.”
South African batsman Johan Maritz has checked in at Pelsall for the summer.
“Johan also bowls a bit of spin and has played in England for Hemel Hempstead in the Hertfordshire League, so we are hoping he will do well for us,” added Pennell, whose side host Whittington on Saturday.
