ANDOVER have a tough looking start to their Southern League Division campaign, but skipper Matt Hopper is looking forward to the challenge.

Andover opened with a tricky trip to Bournemouth this Saturday and then their first home game is against reigning champions Calmore Sports a week on Saturday. Both games have a 12.30pm start time.

Hopper said: "Like all clubs we have not played a lot of cricket and we know Bournemouth are going to be one of the top sides in this league, so it will give us a good idea of where we are.

"Then our first home game is against the champions so again that will be a big test. I am looking for us to finish in the top half, but once the season gets underway we will know where we are at. We are a proper Andover side made of players from around the town."

Andover have no overseas player this season, but have snapped up Hampshire player Asher Hart.

The all-rounder is a right-handed batsman and right-arm medium bowler.

Hart was on Durham’s books having represented their Academy and Second XI sides throughout 2016, before he joined Hampshire.

Also back in the fold are former players seam bowlers Richard Taylor and Luke Graham, the only loss is leg spinner Danny Foy, who has joined a club in London.

Andover Seconds open their Hampshire League at home to Fareham and Crofton.