Tenterden captain Andrew Crawford has stepped down one game into the new Kent League Division 1 season due to increased work commitments.

The 31-year-old category manager with Ashford-based grocery and food suppliers Brake Brothers, took the decision last week, admitting: “I have been thinking about it for a little while, as I couldn’t commit to training twice a week, organising things and picking the team.”

Tevis Knight has taken over and led the side in the three-wicket home defeat by newly-promoted Dartford on Saturday.

Crawford was beginning his fifth season in the job and reflecting on his time in charge, added: “It’s been a long stint and probably the most successful in the club’s history.

“We have consolidated our Division 1 status, which we hadn’t done in the past, having yo-yoed between the divisions and finished fourth three years ago, having been in contention for promotion right up until the final two weeks of the season.

“I am also pleased with the number of young cricketers we have brought into the side in that time.

"Tevis has my 100% backing and I’ll do anything I can to help him.”

Knight, who celebrated his 25th birthday last Friday, steps up from vice-captain having made his first league appearance for the club’s 2nd Xl at the age of 13.