Burgess Hill skipper Maskell hails new spin bowler

Burgess Hill CC captain Joe Maskell in action in 2019. Picture by Steve Robards

Bassan comes to Hill having had spells at Bexley in the Kent League, and Hornchurch in the Essex League.

The bowler will also take up a coaching role, helping young spinners in both the adult and junior sections.

Maskell said: “We’re delighted to have Jas on board. A lot of our players have known Jas for many years, and when we knew he might be available we snapped him up as quickly as possible.

“He will bring experience having played at a high level throughout his career, and bring an addition to the bowling attack that we have never had before.

“He will also add value to our youngsters, offering advice and coaching too.”

Burgess Hill’s adult section returned to training on March 31 as preparations begin for the forthcoming 2021 Sussex Cricket League Division 2 campaign.

The women’s section were back at training on March 29 ahead of their trip to Brighton & Hove Women on Sunday, May 2.

Last season, Hill’s men’s first XI failed to advance from their August Cup group.

Maskell’s side finished fourth, two points shy of group winners St Peters CC, in the supplementary cup competition.

The 2019 campaign ended with Burgess Hill narrowly avoiding relegation from Division 2.

Hill finished third from bottom and just 22 points clear of the drop zone.

Going in to the 2021 season, skipper Maskell was positive on Hill’s chances of success.

The captain pointed towards good first team recruitment and a fine youth section as reasons to be optimistic for the upcoming campaign.

Maskell added: “As a club we are really excited.

“We have recruited well on and off the pitch and all adult teams look strong.

“The youth sections we have added experience coaches to help everyone thrive and reach their potential.”