TARRYCK Gabriel has been given the green light to rejoin Halesowen Cricket Club.

The club’s overseas player is currently making plans to make the trip from St Lucia to spend the summer at Seth Somers Park after a successful visa application.

And he said: “I am really looking forward to being back with Halesowen for a second season.

“I know the boys very well and I like the look of the new signings the club has made.

“It’s fair to say I didn’t have the most successful season last year, but I’m sure the benefit of a year’s experience of playing in England will help. This is a big year for me and the club.”

Meanwhile the club have been handed a double boost off the field with more grants coming their way.

The England and Wales Cricket Trusthad already agreed to underwrite a substantial part of replacing the roll on cover tops and purchase of matting.

And repairs to the clubhouse roof can now be completed following the news

that the Ibstock Cory Environmental trust had agreed to fund the project.

Club Chairman Richard Evans said: “We are delighted to have been awarded this funding and I would take this opportunity to thank both Ibstock Cory and the E & W Cricket Trust.

“We have worked very hard behind the scenes during the close season and this news is just adds to the very positive feeling around the club at the moment.

“I look forward to being able to announce some very exciting sponsorship news in the next week or so.”

Tickets are selling fast for the special appearance from charismatic former World Darts semi-finalist Wayne Mardle at the club on Wednesday April 29.

Stourbridge based micro-brewery, Green Duck Beer Co have stepped up to the oche to sponsor the evening which will feature exhibition darts and a Q&A with the Sky Sports man.

Tickets are £10 and available from the club or any club official. They can also be ordered online at sportstalkevents.co.uk at the booking office.

Rain put paid to last weekend’s CricketForce event and the club will look to complete the outstanding preparations for the new season over the next two weeks. Members are reminded that it this work cannot be completed without a big effort and a healthy turnout is required.