ASHBURTON Cricket Club 1st XI skipper Lloyd White has been busy squad strengthening for the return of B Division cricket to the Varwell Field this season.

Ashes duelled with Cornwood 2nd XI all through 2025 for the lone promotion place out of the Tolchards DCL C Division West.

Getting up and staying up are not the same thing, as others such as Teignmouth & Shaldon have discovered the hard way.

White, a keen student of the DCL, has noted the teams that have stayed the course and intend to follow in their footsteps.

“We know this is a new challenge for us, but we’re certainly not here to make up the numbers,” said White.

“The C West has a strong reputation as a very competitive division, and that’s been proved over the past five years with sides like Stoke Gabriel, Ivybridge, Plymstock and Bridestowe all going up and either holding their own or pushing on even further. That’s exactly the sort of progression we’ll be aiming to replicate.

“With the additions we’ve made over the winter, and the fact that many teams in the division won’t have faced us for a while, we’re confident we’ll be a side that teams won't want to play against.”

“We’ll be looking to be competitive in every single game.”

Top of the recruitment list is Indian all-rounder Santosh Yadav, a left-arm quick and a strong batter.

“Santosh brings a wealth of experience to the side and, we believe, will be a fantastic addition to our campaign this season,” said White.

Kalen Warne, a bowling all-rounder, has arrived from C West neighbours South Devon, where he had a stint as 2nd XI captain.

“Kalen adds excellent depth to the squad and further strengthens our options heading into the season,” said White.

Chris McKee, a mainstay of Cullompton’s seam attack for several seasons, has been lured down to Ashburton after several years trying.

“I’ve known Chris for a number of years and have always tried to get him involved with us,” said White.

“Chris offers great control with the new ball, destructive lower-order batting, and a huge competitive spirit.”

McKee has had a parallel career in semi-professional football with Minehead AFC and, more recently, Wellington Town.

Last but by no means least on the new-faces roster is early order batter Jack Brown, who was with Cornwood before a more recent stint at Kingsbridge.

“Jack brings a wealth of experience at the top of the order along with a superb spin option,” said White.

“He should be available for the majority of games this season and we’re all really excited to see what he can produce.

“Jack will be a massive asset to us, both on and off the pitch.”