MARC Williamson says he is honoured to be handed the captaincy at Swindon as he begins his tenure in charge at home to Devizes in WEPL Wiltshire on Saturday.

Batsman Williamson takes over from Alex Kill, who led Swindon to a fourth-placed finish in the table last season.

Hopes are high for another strong campaign at the County Ground, although the side will have something of a different look to it in 2019 – most notably, behind the stumps.

Wicketkeeper Alex Bowles joined the club over the summer and will take over the gloves from Dan Harris, who will play a lesser role this term after confirming he is unable to play every week due to family commitments.

Speaking to the club’s official website, Williamson said: “I’m very excited for the challenge ahead.

“I’ve been playing at Swindon since I was a junior and it’s a great honour and privilege to take on the captaincy.

“I’ve captained teams throughout my playing career and captaining the first XI has always been something I’ve aspired to.

“Now, as one of the elder statesmen in the team, it feels like the time is right to step into the breach.

“I’m very much ready and raring to go. No one thing stands out in particular for the year ahead, just hopefully lots of victories.”

Swindon’s opening opponents, Devizes, finished just one place below them in the table 12 months ago.

Williamson says his squad will report for the curtain-raiser in high spirits after a strong programme over the winter.

“Winter training has been going great. The numbers that have been able to turn up late in the evening at Croft has been really impressive,” said Williamson.

“I’m fortunate that at Swindon, we’ve got a very dedicated first XI. Quite a few of the guys have been arranging netting sessions in the evenings now that we’re able to get outside.”