Newport Cricket Club’s 1st XI skipper Stuart Blount has decided to step down.
Tomorrow’s side to play at Aston Manor will be captained by all rounder Jonathon Prince.
while Eddie Keenan takes over from vice-captain Rob Furniss who is likely to miss the remainder of the season through injury.
Although Blount will no longer skipper the side, he has emphasised that he wishes to continue to be considered for selection as a player and is included in the team for tomorrow’s game.
“Stuart can look back with pride and satisfaction on his time in charge at Newport,” said club chairman Bob Williams.
“He led us to promotion from the Shropshire League to the Birmingham League and in our first season in that league we were promoted as champions.
“He enjoyed plenty of success again last season, but things have been much more difficult for him this time round.
“He had already decided that he was not going to put his name forward as captain for next season and having thought it over, he has decided to stand down now.
“This is to help the club to start making plans for what looks like life in division three.
“But while his side has struggled to make any impact in the league, let’s not forget that Stuart has also led us to the final of the Chronicle Cup this season.
“It’s the first time in many years that we have reached the final of the county’s premier knockout competition.
“Stuart has been a pivotal member of our 1st XI for many years, and while he does not want the responsibility of captaincy any longer, we are delighted that he wishes to continue to play for the club.”
