THE Hunters ECB Yorkshire Premier League North cricket season starts tomorrow with all seven local teams in action.

Last season’s champions York will make the trip to Leeds to play Yorkshire Academy following a successful off-season of recruitment.

Jonny Tattersall, who is contracted with Yorkshire, has joined the side as an opening bat and will be joined in the order by Leeds Bradford MCCU batsman Ollie Batchelor and Cundall Manor PE teacher Nick James, who has signed from Chester.

York have also brought in the Australian left-arm seam bowler Alex Rose and the all-rounder Guy Darwin, who has county experience with Durham and Nottinghamshire.

Finlay Bean, a promising 16-year-old on a scholarship with Yorkshire, will likely see some action this campaign too, suggests first XI captain Dan Woods.

Speaking about his aims for the season and Saturday’s fixture, he said: “We’ve recruited quite well – it’s been a busy winter. We’ll have quite a different team and quite a young team as well.

“We’re looking to give the young players an opportunity and enjoy the season.

“It’s always a very good game against Yorkshire Academy. It’s always very tough – we’ve had some excellent battles.

“Let’s hope the weather stays kind.”

Leg-spinner Tom Pringle is likely unavailable but, otherwise, York will have a full complement from which to choose.

Sheriff Hutton Bridge will host Woodhouse Grange tomorrow while newly-promoted Sessay will host Acomb, who have brought overseas player Darcy O’Connor into the side.

Clifton Alliance, who escaped the drop by a single point last season, will visit Scarborough and Stamford Bridge will host Harrogate.

York second XI will open their York & District Senior Cricket League premier division campaign at Clifton Park against Beverley Town.

Pickering make the trip to Easingwold and Malton & Old Malton host Bolton Percy.