ALTON Cricket Club will start the 2018 season with a sense of optimism buoyed by the arrival of a world record holder.

The Brewers have announced a major coup, with overseas signing Marco Marais flying in from South Africa as the world record holder of the fastest ever triple century in first-class cricket.

Marais, 24, a hard-hitting middle-order batsman and useful medium-pacer, blasted a mammoth 300 not out from just 191 balls for his province, Border, against Eastern Province last November.

The performance, and weight of runs in the South African summer earned him a call up to franchise side Warriors late in the season.

Alton’s batting was hit and miss last season, so having the explosive power and experience of Marais, who has already had stints in UK club cricket, should bring consistency and confidence to the top order.

Scott Myers continues to lead the first team, and will hope to continue his prolific run-scoring of last season. Dan Harris also showed potential and will aim to improve in his second season with the club.

Alton also boast England Disability Cricket’s Hammond brothers. Alex is an aggressive batsman and Hugo has claimed the keeper’s gloves in the first team.

The evergreen Heffernan brothers, Michael and Mark, should also score useful runs in what promises to be a powerful batting line-up.

Abhay Gonella starts his second season at Alton, having been called into the Hampshire under-17 squad.

Alton’s bowling resources have changed somewhat. Sean Jamison, last year’s overseas professional, has returned to South Africa, while work commitments mean that leg-spinner Jack Myers has moved on to Dorking.

Veteran Julian Ballinger will continue to tempt opposing batsmen with his wily off-spin, while the seaming stocks comprise Ben Mortimer, Toby and Michael Salmon and – depending on recovery from injury – Dan Scott.

Alton 2nd XI were unfortunate to be relegated from the Southern Premier League Division Three last term, despite a respectable won 6, lost 9 record.

Lee Partner will take charge of the side that looks to give experience to talented youngsters in Hampshire County 1.

The 3rd XI continue in Hampshire League 4 North, led by Ian Mason, while Martin Green will round up his charges in the 4th XI as they look for promotion in the I’Anson Competition.

Alton Ladies are looking forward to the new season in Hampshire Women’s League Division 1 after a dominant season earned them promotion last time around. Their side includes members of various Hampshire squads.

The have been changes behind the scenes too, with Richard Myers’ successful tenure as chairman coming to an end. Graeme Hughes takes up the reins.

Pre-season fixtures will start on April 21 when Alton travel to Sussex to meet Ifield CC.

Alton will host Hampshire Academy in the SPL T20 competition on June 10. There is also the small matter of the postponed 2017 final against Havant, to be played on May 20.

Alton are always keen to attract new members and sponsors. Senior training is Tuesday and Thursday nights from 6pm at Jubilee Fields and all are welcome.

Youngsters can also attend Friday night sessions, starting on April 27 at Jubilee (6pm). Alton will also be running the ECB All-Stars cricket. Marco Marais will be leading the sessions, starting on May 16 for eight weeks.

Alton CC run a popular and successful programme, at nine local primary schools during the summer term time.