LYDNEY'S young cricketers have come of age this season and skipper Ed Jones believes they can push all the way for the league title.

Lydney currently top the West of England's Gloucestershire Division and Jones himself has played a key role, taking 22 wickets at an average of just 15.77.

Jones said: "Our bowling is quite strong and whatever we score, we fancy getting the opposition out for less.

"Pete Glynn is a real handful and the quickest bowler in the league. Lydney is a batsman's wicket but it has got some pace in it. I wouldn't want to face him on some of the away wickets."

Backing up the opening two are wily swing bowler Paul Morris, James Legge and Will Jones.

Legge and Will Jones provide the spin option, although the latter used to bowl medium-pace.

Brother Ed joked: "He's done quite well bowling spin but I just think he's got lazy and can't be bothered to run in."

With the bat, Jon Kear (296 runs at 42.29), Charlie Bendall (236 runs at 29.5) and Will Jones (204 runs at 29.14) have all scored useful runs, with others chipping in – including the talented Jake Bonser, who is only 16.

Ed said: "We're a young team and I think that sometimes shows in the field with people switching off.

"We've got Bob Park as team manager this year and he's been a tremendous help to me. It's good to have someone older to turn to for advice."

Only one team is guaranteed promotion this season and there's plenty of cricket still to be played.

Jones said: "We've got some tough games ahead.

"There are no easy games in this league, but we've got to play Painswick at home and Bredon away."