MARTINSTOWN captain Ed Nichols is relishing the “challenge” of playing away to Poole Town in the Dorset Funeral Plan Premier Division at Poole Park tomorrow (1pm).

Nichols, who scored 48 in the corresponding fixture last season, is keen for his players to apply themselves on a notoriously difficult pitch.

“It’s going to be a challenge with their ground and the conditions but we want to put on a good display and build on the win against Shroton last time out.

“I think it’s a case of showing some discipline and taking the time to graft an innings because if we play our usual shots we might come unstuck,” he told Echosport.

Last season’s fixture between the two sides at Poole Park saw the hosts win by three wickets after a crucial unbeaten 47 by Dave Miller rescued his side from a precarious position.

Nichols has again marked Miller as a dangerman but is wary of Poole’s quality right the way through the team.

“We’re aware of their strength in depth after what Dave Miller did last season and they have a good mix of youth and experience.”

Martinstown will travel to Poole without Fraser Hill and Lee House, who both miss out for personal reasons, while seamer Chris Read is expected to come back into the fold.

n Martinstown Seconds host Broadstone Thirds at Lower Ashton Farm tomorrow. William Maltby was the star for the hosts last Saturday, guiding his team to an eight-wicket win over Marnhull Seconds with an unbeaten 64.