Hartley Country Club will face a "massively tough" task if they are to prevent Bromley winning their fifth Shepherd Neame Kent Cricket League Premier Division title in seven years.

The 2008 champions were pipped to the title by unbeaten Bromley last year but with several changes in the line-up this season, captain David Thompson said: "It would be nice to give Bromley a fight for the title but it will be massively tough.

"We have a few youngsters coming through and will be less reliant on the superstars.

"Hopefully, the youngsters can settle in and we can hold our own in the division. I’m confident we can do that."

James Hockley is expected to spend less time with Hartley this summer as he is on Kent duty, while fellow Kent player Matt Coles will play his club cricket for The Mote after their promotion back to the Premier Division.

Former Kent star Matthew Walker is also expected to see less time on the pitch for Hartley although Charlie Hemphrey (picture) has signed from St Lawrence and will bat at three, as well as bowling leg-spin.

Thompson said: "Charlie is a proven Premier Division player and will be a good addition."

Lewis Hickford, 17, will open the batting while Scott McKechnie will aim to continue the form behind the wicket that led to Kent Academy interest last season.

Jestin Guillen may return as overseas player while Andrew Tutt will miss the start of the season after a shoulder operation.

Rumours abound that Hartley – who begin their campaign at The Mote on Saturday – could add Mark Ealham to their squad but Thompson refused to be drawn on the speculation.