BASINGSTOKE and North Hants captain Mitch Stokes has stepped down and is likely to be replaced by David Griffiths or Ben Thane.

A decision on his successor was due to be made at a meeting at the club last night.

The skipper guided the side into the top flight two season ago, but now feels it best for the club if he steps down.

Stokes said: "I am not enjoying my cricket and even if I am doing well with ball, I don't fell I am contributing enough with the bat. I am hoping that standing down as captain will help this and it gives someone 16 games to to put their mark on the season."

Stokes' last game in charge was an impressive second round National Club Championship victory over Guildford, which saw the Bountymen chase down 225 for victory.

Stokes is hoping Basingstoke can continue this form on Saturday, when they entertain Burridge.

In the Bountymen's thrilling six wicket win over top Surrey side Guildford at May’s Bounty.

The visitors put into bat were soon in trouble, as Stokes and David Griffiths removed their opening pair with only 11 scored, but Guildford recovered to 225-3 from their 40 overs.

Basingstoke’s reply got off to a good start as openers Ben Thane and Chris Jolley (25) put on 48 for the first wicket.

Thane (59) and Hobday (45) then took the score to 132, before Thane's excellent 77-ball knock included seven fours and one six, while Hobday hit a brace of fours and sixes in his 66-ball stay at the centre

Brad Porteous on his home debut scored 22 and it was left to Dan Belcher (20) and Stokes (32) to see the home side home with three balls to spare.

Next up for Basingstoke in this competition is a trip to Normandy on June 9.