ANDY Hall is relishing the start of the new Minor Counties Championship three-day season, which begins on Sunday against Devon at Chester Boughton Hall.

The Cheshire captain has already seen his team qualify for the semi final of the Minor Counties Knockout Trophy having won three of their matches in Group A.

And having remained unbeaten in the one-day format Hall, who captained Cheshire to Minor Counties title two years ago, is understandably confident his team can made a winning start to this year's campaign.

"It's been a case of mission accomplished so far having got through to the semi-finals of the Knockout Trophy," said Hall, who top-scored with 65 as Cheshire beat Cumberland by five wickets at Barrow Cricket Club in their last group match on Sunday.

"But we've got to put the semi-final match on the back-burner and concentrate on starting the three-day season with a win.

"Devon have been probably been the most consistent Minor Counties side during the last five-ten years, so we know it's going to be tough.

"We've got six games in the Championship this season - and if we don't start well against Devon I think it could be really hard to win the Western Division.

"If we lose to Devon it's going to be hard work, but on the other hand, if we win we'll get a great boost for the rest of the season."

Cheshire also play Devon in the Knockout Trophy, again at Chester Boughton Hall, on Sunday July 1.

But Hall isn't look too far ahead with selection problems hindering the county naming a full-strength side for Sunday.

All rounder Jason Whittaker, David Fitzsimmons and Ismail Dawood are unlikely to play because of work commitments, with team manager Sandy Scrimgeour set to name his team later this week.

"It looks like we're going to be missing a few players, but we've got a strong squad this season, so it gives some of the players who have not had a chance yet to come in and stake a claim for a regular place," added Hall.

"We've played at Chester during the last few seasons, so hopefully we can find some form there again this year. It's a good wicket at Chester and it usually turns on the third day, so we'll be prepared."

Entrance is free for all three days of the match and on Sunday the club have organised a BBQ for spectators.

Car parking is free and play starts at 11.00 each day.