Bishop's Waltham turn to Hong Kong for inspiration

Aggressive opening batsman Sunny Bhimarsia arrived early this week after a stint in the inaugural Hong Kong T20 competition.

In the six-team competition he played alongside Aussie star Michael Clarke and other first-class players.

The 22-year-old right-hander has represented Hong Kong at under-19 level and is looking to break into their senior squad.

He is expected to make his debut against unbeaten Portsmouth & Southsea at Albany Road.

Home captain Dan Wheeler has high hopes that Bhimarsia can help his team consolidate their division one status after last season’s promotion.

‘In the last few seasons our Hong Kong link has done us a lot of good,’ said Wheeler.

‘All the players who have come over have made a big difference to us.

‘I know Sunny is keen to follow in their footsteps and be equally effective.

‘He doesn’t want to let the side down.

‘It will be a baptism of fire because he isn’t starting with the easiest of games.

‘Portsmouth & Southsea are going well and we know all about their strengths.

‘We played them in a pre-season fixture last season and they beat us by 10 wickets.

‘I am confident that we can make a much better fist of it this time around.’

It has been a difficult start for Wheeler’s team, particularly after losing last season’s leading run scorer, Phil Baldock, to injury.

Their first two games ended in defeat but a surprise win at Ventnor II last weekend with a below-strength side provided a boost to confidence.

With his team back to near full-strength, Wheeler is hoping his troops can surprise the visitors.

‘Getting our first win on the board was a real bonus as it was unexpected,’ added Wheeler.

‘We showed a lot of grit and determination and that has given us extra motivation for this difficult game.’

Phil Dalton keeps his place in the side after a couple of impressive performances with bat and ball.

Visiting captain Kieran Dunston makes a couple of changes as he looks for a fourth successive win.

Rich Collier and James Cleary are promoted into the senior side for their senior debuts.

They replace unavailable pair Tom Benfield, away at the Derby, and Rob Evans.

‘This is our first away game and we must look to maintain our momentum,’ said Dunston.

‘We have heard their overseas player is quite good but we are determined not to let him have things his own way.

‘Our bowling attack is one of the most feared in our league and they are relishing the challenge.

‘Our aim is to remain unbeaten for a few games yet.’

Bishop’s Waltham: Mark Boriani, Sunny Bhimarsia, Dom Quincy, Haida Khan, Gareth Lovett, Sam Medhurst, Harry Barrett,

Dan Wheeler, Phil Dalton, Matt Bradley, Richard Dadd

Portsmouth & Southsea: Steve Clement, Matt Smith,

Jack Davies, Matt Benfield, Ryan Way, James Cleary, Rich Collier, Ben Saunders, Chris Turrell, Jonathan Willey, Kieran Dunston