JASON Cornes will start the defence of his Guardian Cup crown on the same green he lifted the silver trophy following last year’s final.

The Castle Private ace claimed the Mid-Cheshire Merit title for a fifth time at Moulton RBL, where he returns on Monday for the qualifying round of this season’s edition.

Cornes, who will captain Cheshire in the home leg of their latest British Senior County Championship match the previous day, had waited more than a decade to add to his list of wins in the Guardian Cup.

“I thought my time had passed, that I wouldn’t win the competition again,” he said.

“The fact I have makes it the most special of the lot.”

Cornes’ success makes him the second most successful bowler in Guardian Cup history, tied with Stan Frith.

He is joined by three former champions – Comberbach duo John Gurney and Matthew Thurlwell, plus Wharton Cons’ Thomas Vickers – in a tricky-looking draw at the Main Road green.

Thurlwell was a first-time victor in 2013, while Vickers won the previous two editions.

A field of almost 60 bowlers will contest the first stage, with four progressing from as many greens to the intermediate round.

Among them is 10-time finals night victor Glynn Cookson (Wharton Cons), who plays at Lostock.

Two more former champions, clubmate Alan Vickers and Nicola Boulton (Frodsham Red Lion), are potential opponents.

Rudheath and Winnington Park Recreation Club are the other greens hosting qualifying round matches.