NEW Wiltshire cricket captain Richard Bedbrook says he can't wait for the first ball of the Minor Counties season to be bowled on Sunday.

Wiltshire open their 2006 campaign with a friendly against Corsham at Station Road before the traditional Marlborough Cup match against Berkshire at Devizes on April 23. The first competitive fixture is a group match in the Minor Counties Knockout Trophy against Oxfordshire at Westbury on April 30.

Former Devizes all-rounder Bedbrook, who has replaced South Wilts stalwart Russell Rowe, said he was hoping for a successful six months this summer. He said: "With the squad we've got I think this could be a very exciting season for Wiltshire cricket.

"We need to get off to a good start in the one-day competition, so it's important to take full advantage of the two warm-up matches."

Wiltshire have made several new signings for 2006 in a bid to book a place at Lord's for the second consecutive season.

Former Gloucestershire and Leicestershire batsman Rob Cunliffe will offer the benefits of his experience to the younger squad members, including 16-year-old Chippenham all-rounder Liam Dawson, who recently toured South Africa with the England under 16 team.

Combined Services all-rounder Alex Senneck and former Berkshire wicket keeper Paul Davidge are two other new faces.

Bedbrook said: "I'm excited about all the new signings, especially Rob Cunliffe. He has been so enthusiastic during practice and he has that air of been there done that' about him. "We really want to get back to Lord's this season after the disappointment of the wash-out in last year's final."