Cardigan Connor's long-standing Hampshire links have provided a direct spin-off for Ventnor, who parade a promising young Anguillian all-rounder in tomorrow's Southern Electric Premier League, Division 3 opener against New Milton at Fernhill, 1pm.

Chaka Hodge, 20, who played three Red Stripe Bowl matches for the Rest of the Leeward Islands this winter, will be spending the summer on the Island as part of his cricket development.

An off-spinner and middle-order batsman, Hodge has represented West Indies B and last summer had trials with Leicestershire.

New Milton finished sixth in Division 3 last season, but are expected to be among the front runners alongside Alton, Havant II and recently relegated Winchester KS this summer.

Winchester face off against newly promoted South Wilts II at River Park, with Alton journeying to Bashley (Rydal) II.

South African Erasmus Hendrikse makes his Trojans debut against relegated Rowledge, who will be without any of the Yates family.

Chris senior is sidelined for the entire season after shattering his little finger in a National Village Championship tie, while son Ricky and cousin Chris are still at university.

Hursley Park, who launched their Division 2 challenge with an emphatic win over United Services, travel to Purbrook, while Old Tauntonians & Romsey are without wicket-taking left-arm spinner Nick Wood against Easton & Martyr Worthy at Romsey.

Suspended Steve Green continues to sit it out on the sidelines, but will be available for Easton's Winchester derby with St Cross Symondians next Saturday.

St Cross, two wicket winners at Gosport last week, are unchanged for the clash with near neighbours Sparsholt at the Royal Green Jackets ground.

Relegated from Premier 1 last season, Burridge entertain Lymington at Botley Road.