Portsmouth are hoping to make Hay in promotion push after Fraser boost

They face a tough start to the campaign against newly-relegated New Milton on Saturday at St Helens Field.

The home side are boosted by the return of talented Aussie all-rounder Fraser Hay for a fourth season with the club.

Marston expects the 22-year-old to once again be an influential player in their fortunes.

He said: ‘Fraser had a brilliant winter back home and was called up into the Perth Scorchers squad.

‘Though he only made 12th man he did appear in their second team.

‘He opens the bowling and bats at number three so is a pivotal player for us.

‘In his previous visits he has played for Hampshire seconds and he will be hoping to do the same again.

‘Playing New Milton first up will give us a good indication of where we are at.

‘It will give us an idea of whether what we want is achievable.

‘We must look to be competitive.

‘They didn’t have the best of times last season but they will be wanting to go straight back up.