HALESOWEN Cricket Club chairman Richard Evans is urging everyone at the club to get behind new skipper Richard Brooker.

Brooker will take charge for the first time against Tamworth in Saturday’s home game (midday start).

He replaces Faisal Shahid who resigned this morning in the aftermath of their latest defeat at the hands of league leaders Sutton Coldfield.

Evans said: “Richard is an experienced player and I hope all the club gets behind him as we aim to push up the table in the second half of the season.

“We wish Faisal well as he continues to represent Halesowen as a player, and thank him for all of his hard work over the past season and a half.”

Shahid took over as skipper in April last year after Wes Griffiths stepped down following two seasons at the helm.

Saturday’s defeat means Halesowen are hovering just above the relegation zone despite all the pre-season optimism.

Evans added: “The bowling unit did well to restrict Sutton Coldfield to 204, but once again our batting frailties were exposed.

“Too many wickets were gifted to the opposition and we simply aren't putting as high a price on our wicket as we should be.

“This week was always likely to bring a lot of soul searching.”

With the season at the halfway point Halesowen will need an upturn in form to preserve their status. Wins against the teams currently below them in the table, Brewood, Eastnor and Stourbridge will be vital.

Adam Hawker’s 2nd XI maintained the pressure on the league leaders with a winning draw at Kenilworth Wardens thanks to a fine maiden century from 17 year old Deon Patel as Halesowen posted a very competitive 254-5 from their 50 overs.

Hawker led from the front with 3-54 from his 15 overs with the other spinners picking up the remaining wickets. With seven wickets down Kenilworth put up the shutters and settled for the draw This weekend the firsts are in action at home to Tamworth (noon start) whilst the 2nds travel for the reverse fixture.