HADLEIGH & Thundersley host Chingford on the opening day of the Premier Division season this weekend.

Hadleigh won promotion from Division One last season.

But the club’s press officer David Williams knows it will be tough for the team at the higher level.

“We have played a few Premier Division sides in recent years, such as Wanstead, Brentwood, Chingford and Southend so we know the step up will be tough,” said Williams.

“But it’ll be good to test ourselves against the best in the county.”

And Williams also believes Hadleigh have the players to be able to make a big impression.

“We have a talented squad who are more than capable of succeeding in this league,” said Williams.

“However as this is the first time in over 15 years we have been in the top division, anything from eighth upwards would be a big success.”

Hadleigh have brought in Louis Poynter from Woodford Wells since the end of last season along with Haider Zaidid from South Woodford.

Australian Brandon Jacobs has also signed and scored a fine 116 in Hadleigh’s 62 run win against Harlow in the League Cup at the weekend.

Hadleigh will now be looking to build on that fine win this weekend.

But Williams feels Chingford will be difficult opponents.

“We start the season with a tough test at home to Chingford on Saturday,” said Williams.

“They have Essex bowler Matt Quinn in their squad and they are a good team.”