INJURED Wisbech Town captain James Williams has insisted he will grit his teeth to play for the cricket club when the season starts next week.

The all-rounder is set to have an operation on his shoulder in June, which will leave him sidelined for around five months.

But Williams said he is determined to play the first half of the season, which begins with a friendly two-day game against the MCC on April 13-14.

“I will be playing through gritted teeth until the operation,” he said. “It’s not great news and I’m not sure if I’m going to bowl.

“I have been looking forward to the start of the season. We have been pushing for the title for the last three years and I think we are in a good position to be able to do that again.

“Unfortunately it sounds like I’m not going to be able to play much of a part in that.”

Although the news is a blow to the Wisbech squad, they have been boosted by the signing of Western Australian seamer Drew Jones who hopes to arrive at the club by the end of the month.

The club have also signed former player Sam Albutt and Wisbech Grammar School skipper Jack Hastings to strengthen their charge for the Tucker Premier Division One title.

Williams said: “We have still got the resources to be pushing to the top without me. I’m a bit down in the dumps about missing the season but I will still be there watching every game.”

• The club have also finalised plans for a special signing on Fun Day, to be held at their Harecroft Road ground on Sunday April 17.

The day is a chance for young cricketers and new members to have a look at the club and coaching taster sessions will be on offer. There will also be an assault course, bouncy castle, barbecue and inflatable bungee run.

Full membership costs �25 and includes 15 training sessions. Newcomers can become a trial member for �5 for the first three weeks, with the option of upgrading.