HIMBLETON CC are banking on big hitting batsmen Andy Howorth helping them win promotion from the Worcester League Division Four.

Howorth, who moved from Birlingham in the winter, boasts a fearsome record, averaging 71 runs a match in 2004.

Captain Dean Oliver is looking forward to seeing his new addition in action when they start the season at home to Claverly on Saturday.

He said: "Andy is the best batsman in the division and I'm delighted he decided to join us.

"We're hoping he's going to add a lot of runs to the side."

Australian all-rounder John O'Hara has also joined the squad.

Steve Mills has left Himbleton, while under-16s player James Alford has joined Birmingham and District side Old Edwardians.

The captain though is hoping his side will avoid the slump, which denied them promotion last season.

Himbleton had been chasing the top two in third place but the unavailability of key bowlers Richard Pretty and Sam Jenkins hit them badly and the side finished sixth.

Oliver said: "Without Richard and Sam we didn't have the depth to carry our good form on.

"But I'd be disappointed if we didn't win promotion this year."