ABBOTSKERSWELL CC have asked Toby Codd to take over as captain next season and steer them out of the doldrums.

Back-to-back relegations from the A then B Divisions of the Tolchards Devon Cricket League have sent Abbots back to the C Division West for the first time since 2016.

Former Devon spin bowler Codd, who had two stints as skipper at Bovey Tracey in the Premier Division before returning to his boyhood club, is looking forward with confidence to Abbots’ future.

“It’s been a tough couple of years for the first team, but it’s really important we stick together,” said Codd, who has taken over from Eddie Smout-Cooper.

“There are so many positive things happening at Abbots, including the promotion of the second team, the success of the third team and the upcoming introduction of hardball youth teams.”

As losing has become a bad habit as far as the first team is concerned, restoring some pride is high on the agenda. Codd believes the club has the personnel to do it.

“We’ve got some really good young players such as Alfie Harrison and Harrison Vickery, who we will be looking to build around in the years to come,” said Codd. “At the moment, it’s about trying to support them as best as possible and creating an environment for them to be successful.

“We’ve also got important experienced players including Eddie Smout-Cooper, James Tyler, Charlie Hill and Tom Heath. They’re all going to help me try and shape things for next summer.”

Codd said player recruitment is ongoing, as is the engagement of potential overseas players. Abbots have struggled on both fronts in recent seasons.

Looking slightly further ahead, Codd said: “We’ll be starting pre-season nets after Christmas as we look to hit the ground running. Let’s hope for a successful 2026.”