CAPTAIN Nick Davies is confident that Bromsgrove CC can escape from their relegation worries in the Birmingham and District League Division One.

The Boars are second from bottom after losing their vital clash with Aston Unity.

To make matters worse Bromsgrove face a daunting task when they welcome unbeaten leaders Smethwick to St Godwalds on Saturday (1pm start).

Davies though is confident that his side's team spirit can dig them out of the relegation zone.

He said: "Things have not gone as well as I would have liked this season and we are in trouble.

"But we haven't lost any team spirit and they guys are still as tight knit as ever.

"What's important is that we don't start to panic.

"We have some good players here and the need to find their form."

The captain has been frustrated by his side's weakness with the bat.

Bromsgrove have only batted out 55 overs in four out of 13 league games.

Davies said: "I honestly can't think of a good ball that has bowled any of us out in the last few games.

"It has been poor shot selection that has really hit us."

Bowler Mark Bagley and experienced all rounder Paul Duffy are set to return to the side for the visit of Smethwick.

Duffy has missed most of the season because of injury and work commitments.

Worcestershire's Stephen Peters is also a doubt for Bromsgrove with a hamstring injury.

Davies is hoping that his side can turn around its poor season with a big win over Smethwick.

He said: "It's a big test for us, but if we're going to start winning we might as well start with the leaders."