PIRATES PICK RITCHINGS

POOLE have moved to bring in Darryl Ritchings to take their No.7 berth from this Wednesday’s Cab Direct Championship opener against Scunthorpe.

Ritchings replaces Matt Marson in what is a temporary switch from the Pirates who intend to track Will Cairns in that position from the end of next month when he turns 16 years of age.

Promoter Dan Ford said: “Matt has found it tough at Championship level, and we feel it is important to strengthen our competitiveness at reserve.

“Darryl brings valuable experience, and we believe that can really benefit the team. We have nine meetings before Will becomes eligible to step into the side and Darryl fully understands the role and is eager to make the most of this opportunity.

“His form in the third tier has been very encouraging – he is set to move to an 8.20 average in the NDT and has made a strong start with Oxford in the NDL- so we are hopeful he can carry that confidence into the Championship over the coming weeks.

“We want to sincerely thank Matt for his efforts and wish him all the best for the future.”