ANUPAM Sanklecha says he is eager to give young players a chance to flourish after becoming Shipton-under-Wychwood’s captain.

The overseas star has taken over the reins at the Home Counties Premier League club, with Charlie Brain having stepped down.

Sanklecha is faced with the task of attracting new players to Shipton after losing several senior members of the first team.

But the 35-year-old, who broke the club record for most league wickets in a season in 2017 with 63, sees it as an opportunity to develop young talent.

He said: “Shipton-under-Wychwood asked me if I could lead the team and I was more than happy to say yes and take the responsibility of captaining the side.

“It’s a proud moment for me.

“I am keen to give chances to youth, so they can prove themselves.

“And I will help any new players with passing on my skills and knowledge.”

Sanklecha returns to Shipton for a fifth season, after taking 201 wickets and averaging 33.36 with the bat since joining the club in 2014.

But he is unable to call upon three senior figures for this year's Division 2 campaign.

Shaun Miller has chosen to play for the 2nd XI, while Simon Hole is taking a break and Andrew Hemming can no longer commit to the all-day format following the birth of his child.

Sanklecha, though, is confident in the strength of the squad and of being able to attract new faces.

He said: “As I have been playing for Shipton for the last four years, I know the players very well.

“We have a good bond between us. The club is going through a transitional period.

“We’ve got a few senior members of the side no longer available for one reason or another.”

Sanklecha added: “Our current squad is good.

“We have good youngsters who are stepping up and proving their place in the first team.

“We are still looking for few new players to join the club to make our team better.

“Anyone interested in challenging themselves in the Home Counties please get in touch.

“It’s a good opportunity for new players to join the club and play in a better league.

“It will help them to play competitive cricket and step up to play for the county.”