AFTER more than 25 years playing local cricket, there’s not much David Trotter has failed to achieve.

The 43-year-old’s sideboard boasts all sorts of mementoes from Dorset Premier League winners medals to Minor Counties caps.

But while most bowlers of his age are contemplating second or even third team cricket, the Weymouth skipper has only one thing on his mind.

“Captaining Weymouth to the Dorset Premier League title this year,” he says ahead of Saturday’s opening game at Poole.

“I’ve always dreamed about skippering the side at this level and that dream has finally come true. I know I’m no spring chicken but my appetite and enthusiasm are as strong as they’ve ever been.

“Weymouth have been through some rebuilding in recent years and I think we are now ready to make a serious challenge for honours. Obviously I’m realistic and know it won’t be easy, but we’ll be going all out to win every game we play and the title is the ultimate goal this summer.

“Last year we finished fourth in the table and so the first priority is to improve on that. But for me, the championship is what it’s all about.”

In terms of being prepared, the Seasiders can barely lay claim to having had a close season.

The side has been training and netting since October under new coach and former Dorset star Sean Fitzgerald.

Trotter added: “When I was made captain the first call I made was to Fitz. And when he agreed to join us as player-coach from Bridport, I knew then we’d be in for a good season.

“He’s an excellent coach and man manager and everyone has been really motivated by his arrival. I don’t think we could be better prepared and the boys are itching to get outdoors and put their winter work into practice.”

While the bulk of last term’s players remain, Weymouth have made a couple of interesting signings.

Fitzgerald himself will fill one of the top order batting spots while Pakistani, Farazz and Indian, Zejay are both middle-order batsmen and swing/spin bowlers.

Trotter added: “Farazz and Zejay are working for the company building the new Weymouth relief road and are deemed as non-overseas players because they’ve been living and working in England for a long time.

“Both are very exciting prospects and together with Fitz, they have strengthened us tremendously.

“Looking at the squad I think it’s extremely well-balanced and the competition for places will be hot. But bringing on the youngsters remains our club policy and I am determined to see lads like Kieran Womble, Will McKay and others playing a big role in the Dorset Premier League this season.”

All in all there’s a quiet air of confidence around Redlands at the moment and that’s something the skipper wants to see continue.

He said: “The mood in the camp is excellent and that’s what I want. First and foremost playing cricket is about having fun and if people aren’t enjoying it, then what’s the point. Beyond that we are determined to do well. There’s been enough doom and gloom for Weymouth sports fans this year and so hopefully we can give the town something to be proud of.”