ST ASAPH will be looking to mount a North Wales Cricket League Premier Division title challenge after emerging as the surprise package last term.

Despite being one of the unfancied sides heading into the campaign, the group produced a series of consistent and positive results on their way to a third-placed finish, ending up just 28 points behind winners’ Bangor and five behind Menai Bridge.

They will be led once again by young batting sensation Will Ryan, who demonstrated his leadership qualities to great effect last term and also established himself as one of the top batsmen operating within the top flight.

The gifted stroke-maker acquired 721 runs from 21 innings at the crease at an average of 45.06, including a top score of 117 against Connah’s Quay.

He will once again be counted on to provide some valuable runs for a strong-looking top order that has also been boosted with the experienced Duncan Midgley, who has signed on at Elwy Grove Park from relegated Mochdre.

With Mathew Ryan also looking to build on a positive 2017 campaign with the bat, the city side possess one of the most dangerous teams in the division as they look to wrestle the crown from Bangor.

Their bowling attacking also comes with significant presence in the form of Paul Fleming and Jason Foulkes, who were key contributors to their memorable campaign, while veteran David North will provide notable experience to a young squad that has a great deal of potential operating within it.

They begin their season on home soil against 2016 champions Llandudno on Saturday, April 21, before travelling to Hawarden Park and derby rivals Denbigh.

Following this trio of encounters, Ryan’s side face a stern test at title rivals Bridge, before facing off against Brymbo, Chirk and Pwllheli all before June.

The championship contenders have arranged a special friendly on Saturday, April 14 when they entertain Didsbury.