The newly formed side will take its place in the Saracens Herts Premier Cricket League’s Division 14 East, playing home games at Old Haberdashers Sports Club, Croxdale Road, Borehamwood.

The formation of a Saturday 5th XI is a surefire sign of the health of Mill Hill Village, with its growing adult membership base, a thriving juniors section, including four girls teams, two high-quality pitches at our permanent Burtonhole Lane home, and a clubhouse that has recently undergone improvements.

The league will see the Village take on some familiar foes in Old Camdenians, Cheshunt Rosedale and Datchworth, as well as some lesser-visited spots in the county, such as Tewin CC, based at Aston Cricket Ground in Stevenage. A highlight will no doubt be an away trip to Knebworth Park Cricket Club, situated within the grounds of the imposing Grade II-listed Knebworth House.

Director of Cricket Phil Smith said: “It’s very exciting that we’re expanding to a 5th XI, possibly for the first time in the club’s history. We’ve got a place in Division 14 East, which means a full programme of fixtures. We’re going to use it as a league development opportunity, trying to bring some juniors through - and mix them with a few old hands and senior players, trying to get junior players ready for league cricket. That’s the aim of this side. It’s great that the expansion of Mill Hill Village Cricket Club has enabled us to field a 5th XI and create opportunities for more players, including juniors.

“Matt Barrett has kindly agreed to skipper it and he’s one of the key coaches for the juniors, so he will know what to do with the juniors during these games. That’s a good fit. I wish Matt every success in the captaincy role.

“I hope everyone enjoys these games.”

5th XI captain Matt Barrett, pictured above, said: “I’m thrilled and excited to be leading the 5th XI this season. When it was first discussed, I put my name forward to be the captain because I thought it was a fantastic opportunity for the club to continue to encourage players to join who want to play competitive league cricket. It gives the club more opportunities for growth and stability for the future. Plus, those who join and perform well can move up the pyramid and play for the Village at a higher level.

“Equally, if not more important, it provides a great avenue for those youngsters who are part of our junior teams to play at an adult level. They will learn so much by being surrounded by seasoned veterans, both on their own team and in the opposition. It also gives them a taste of longer format cricket, where their skills can flourish.

“I cannot wait for the season to start, to bring home another piece of silverware for the club and play with the youngsters, some of whom I have coached, and to see them score their first century and/or take a hatful of wickets.”

Last season all four Saturday league sides earned promotion.

The 5th XI start the season on May 9 away at Datchworth CC 4th XI, See the list of 5th XI fixtures on Play-Cricket here.