CHAIRMAN Gary Kirk believes the “development and integration” of more young players is pivotal to Clacton Cricket Club’s future.

The Seasiders begin their Marshall Hatchick Two Counties Championship second division campaign with a home fixture against East Bergholt on Saturday.

Hopes are high for a memorable season under the stewardship of new captain Imran Sheikh, especially with exciting South African all-rounder Harlan Greig having signed for the Seasiders.

However, Kirk is focused on long-term success - not just victories this summer - as he strives to take the club forward.

And to that end, he is determined and focused on trying to attract more young talent to Vista Road.

“As chairman, and in my 40th year at the club, my mission is to attract younger cricketers to our club and that’s our concentration for this season,” he told the Gazette.

“The club continues to work hard, on and off the field, providing cricket for everyone, and we’re always looking to improve.

“But a lack of cricket being played in local secondary schools is creating problems for the longevity of cricket in Tendring.

“The club’s philosophy won’t change, though, despite the challenges ahead, and I’m certain our club will get stronger as a result.

“Sundays, in particular, will be for our younger players to develop their skills in adult, competitive cricket and that’s vital for the future of both them and the club.

“The development and integration of more young players into the senior set-up is pivotal to the club’s future.

“We’re still very much in a rebuilding phase and will be putting a lot of emphasis into getting younger people playing cricket.

“We’ll be doing this by offering cricket taster sessions, kwik cricket and beach cricket and we’re determined to provide the opportunity for everyone to represent the town - something to be very proud of.

“We’re always looking for new players, young and old, and will make everyone welcome.”

Kirk has high hopes for exciting young talent Greig.

The 20-year-old, a leg-spin bowler who bats in the middle order, holds a British passport and will be hoping to make a flying start against Bergholt.

“Everyone at the club is looking forward to the season ahead,” added Kirk.

“We underachieved last season and so are looking to ensure we don’t underestimate division two, its teams and the players.

“We’ve kept our squad together, which is always the most important thing, and I’m also very excited to see how Harlan goes.

“He’s a very focused young man and a talent for sure.

“Imran is our new captain for this year and he’s a player who started at Clacton when he was 14.

“He brings experience, focus, a lot of enthusiasm and replaces Ryan Chamberlain, who did a great job last season.” For more information, or to register an interest in joining, contact Kirk via iftgk@aol.com Clacton get their North Essex Sunday League campaign underway at home to Copdock on April 29.