Frocester fans will be hoping for more of the same from Gloucestershire all-rounder Ed Middleton after his spectacular debut for the club six days go.

The 24-year-old opened the batting and made an unbeaten 123 in his side’s imposing 352-9 against Downend.

But he didn’t stop there because he then took 4-18 with his leg-spin as Frocester won by a massive 213 runs.

It was a perfect start to the Premier One campaign in the West of England Premier League for Frocester and they are now looking forward to hosting Bristol, who overcame Thornbury in a thriller by two runs at the weekend.

Bristol’s director of cricket Will Rudge has confirmed that neither James Bracey nor Josh Shaw will be playing tomorrow, but they will still provide a stern test for Frocester after finishing just 16 points behind champions Potterne in 2024.

They actually finished fifth in the 10-strong division but were three places and 70 points ahead of Frocester, who won three of their last four games to pull clear of relegation in dramatic fashion.

“I think we’re looking a bit stronger this season,” said club stalwart Eric Woodmason, who confirmed that opening batsman Max Dunne will captain the side against Bristol because regular skipper Will Naish is unavailable.

“Ed Middleton brings solidity to the top order. He’s a bowler/batter, with Gloucestershire he’s primarily a bowler.

“He’s top drawer, he’s batting very well. Will Naish is looking in good form too, we’re hoping to get 600 runs at least from Naishy.

“We should get the runs to enable us to get enough victories.”

Frocester have recruited a number of new faces this season with Ben Johnstone, a left-hand bat and medium pace bowler, joining from Gloucester.

Wicketkeeper Wil Foley, an overseas player from Australia, ex-Gloucester star Freddie Collinson and Oscar Moore are also all new to the club.

Seam bowler Moore, a pupil at Cheltenham College, is part of Gloucestershire’s academy.