CAPTAIN Ali Jaffer admits Lymington’s fragile battling is becoming a “concern”.

Jaffer’s comments come in the wake of Lymington capitulating for just 88 at Bashley six days ago, their second collapse in succession.

Big guns Glyn Treagus and Darren Cowley have managed just one half century each this season, as have skipper Jaffer and Australian overseas player Scott Henry.

The biggest disappointment for Lymington has been Rob O’Brien who has mustered a paltry 46 runs in no fewer than six innings – with 18 against Totton & Eling his highest score.

Cameron Grierson is the only batsman to have registered three figures, while Lymington have been relying on all-rounder Matt Metcalfe to bail them out down the order.

Jaffer, speaking ahead of the visit of Bournemouth tomorrow, told the Daily Echo: “Our batting is just not firing. But there is enough quality in the batting department that we can’t go on for long not scoring.

“Players need to spend some time and be a bit patient and the runs will come. The boys understand it and are being honest. Hopefully, we will take responsibility in the future because it is a concern.

“We have had a couple of bad games with the bat and can’t fault the bowlers. It is disappointing and it is time to pull up our socks. We need to turn up against Bournemouth and perform much better than we have in our past two games.”

Lymington welcome back Matt Metcalfe and seamers Ed Freeman and Paul McCann.

Lymington: Jaffer, Henry, Grierson, Cowley, Treagus, O’Brien, Beetham, Metcalfe, Freeman, McCann, Thacker.

  • New Milton will be looking to follow up their win over Division One high-fliers Hambledon when they travel to second-placed Burridge (1pm).

Either Steve Watts or Joe Prodomo will come in for the injured Mark House.

New Milton: (from) R Beck, N Park, J Park, L Beck, Elliott, Gargaro, T Prodomo, G Watts, Staniford, Loader, S Watts, J Prodomo.