SOUTH LINCS AND BORDER OPENS

By Ann Boulton

Billingborough begin their campaign for the 2012 South Lincolnshire & Border League title with a visit to Belton Park. But the champions are expected to face a real challenge from Spalding who have strengthened their squad through the winter particularly in the bowling department where Michael Kearns has moved from
Market Deeping to join his brother Charlie.
Spalding should have started their league season on Saturday but the game at Market Deeping was rained off.  However, play was possible at Grantham were Stamford got their challenge for the top off to a good start with an eight wicket win.
New Grantham skipper Gareth Bennett fell just one short of the season’s first half century but saw his side slip to 115 all out.
This weekend, Spalding are at home to Lindum Ramblers while Stamford entertain Market Deeping 2nd
and newly promoted Skegness 2nd are away to Sleaford 2nd.
Skegness replaced Boston 2nd whose aim is an instant bounce back into Division One.  However, their
first Division Two game is likely to be a tough one as they take on 2011 title challengers Cavaliers at the Mayflower Ground.
All Division Three, all the newcomers are in action in the first week of the season with Friskney
entertaining newly formed Welby 2nd and Lindum Academy away at Spalding 3rd on Sunday.

Division One
Belton Park v Billingborough
Bourne 2 v Grantham
Sleaford 2 v Skegness 2
Spalding v Lindum Ramblers
Stamford Town v Market Deeping 2
Woodhall Spa 2 v Moulton Harrox

Division Two
Boston 2 v Cavaliers
Spalding 2 v Heckington
Welby v Stamford Town 2
Sunday April 22
Moulton Harrox Sun v Thomas Cook

Division Three
Claypole v North Luffenham
Friskney v Welby 2
Sunday April 22
Spalding 3 v Lindum Academy