LUDLOW skipper Bryn Simmons is backing his trio of young stars to make the league sit up and take notice in this season's Shropshire County League Premier Division.

Whilst South African pace man Matthew Kennedy will undoubtedly occupy the minds and game plans of opposition captains, big things are expected of youngsters Dylan Grinker, James Gerritse and Luke Miles.

All three demonstrated their talent last year in spells, but Simmons believes they are all on the verge of establishing themselves as danger men at senior level.

He said: “This is their year.

“It’s going to be an exciting side to captain this year – all three young players have shown real natural ability.”

Opener Grinker, 18, started last season in red hot form before tailing off, while Miles has switched from swing to off-spin, and Simmons said, looks as if he has been bowling it all his life.

“Being a year older, more experienced is huge at their age,” said Simmons. “They’ll benefit massively from that.”

And Gerritse will have the added bonus of working week-to-week with fellow opening bowler, the highly anticipated former South African Under-19 player Kennedy.

Having arrived last Thursday, Kennedy participated in an open net session on Saturday after the team’s friendly against Shelton was cancelled.

Ludlow open their league campaign at home to Bomere Heath this Saturday.

Simmons said: “Matthew is an unbelievable bowler.

“He already looks better than Jason Van Loggrenberg – and Jason had 60 wickets for us last year.”

Along with Kennedy, Simmons has brought in all-rounder Ed Riley from Corvedale to bring stability to the team.

The Ludlow skipper said: “We have a young side, and I Ed will bring an old head.

“He has a great attitude and is a very good player.”