NEW Chudleigh cricket captain Mark Solway has completed his first two signings since taking the helm at Kate Brook.

All-rounder Mark Halse, and his keeper-batter brother Nick, have re-joined Chudleigh from C Division East side Alphington & Countess Wear.

Having been relegated from the Tolchards DCL B Division last season, with only one win to their name, Chudleigh are looking to strengthen for an immediate promotion push from the C West in 2025. The brothers are part of the jigsaw being assembled by Solway to do just that.

“I have decided to take on the captaincy role this year to try and get us promoted back to where I think we belong,” said Solway, who has replaced Will Heather as skipper.

“Mark and Nick are two good signings for us. I am very pleased to have them back at the Brook! They will make a huge impact for the club on and off the field.

“We have recruited well so far and there are and a couple of others in the melting pot…”

The Halse brothers started their cricket careers in the youth set-up at Chudleigh before embarking on a ‘tour’ from 2009 onwards that took them to South Devon CC, Abbotskerswell and finally Alphington & Countess Wear.

Mark’s batting highlights for Alphington & Countess Wear include five league centuries – the best his 133 against Exeter 2nd XI in 2022. Nick’s day to remember was in June 2021 when he took a ton off Kentisbeare.

Nick Halse said he and his brother felt it was the right time to move on and Chudleigh was the obvious club to join.

“We have gone full circle, back to where it all began,” said Halse.

“After a few chats with the Heathers (Matt and Will) and some old faces, we decided to move back to Chudleigh.”