Hampshire's cricket development manager Neil Rider, pictured, wants to reintroduce the game back into the heart of Southampton.

Rider wants to form a junior community club based in Hoglands Park, once the focal point of cricket in the city.

Rider, 25, who moved from Berkshire to take up his development post at the Hampshire Rose Bowl a year ago, wants to give cricket-starved inner-city youngsters the chance to take part in organised matches, receive coaching and play games in a safe environment.

He plans to involve the large Asian and ethnic community, along with several inner-city schools, in the new club.

The sight of cricket being played at Hoglands Park, in the centre of Southampton's thriving shopping area, has gradually dwindled to near extincton in recent years.

The demise of the famous Deanery club, who used to play their home matches at the old County Ground in Northlands Road, and the relatively recent merger between Old Tauntonians and Romsey has left Southampton without a senior cricket team at all within its unitary boundaries.

But Rider said: "I believe there is great potential for cricket to 'take off' in the area."

The project is seen as a huge priority, for Hampshire cricket and for Southampton City Council, who recognise the importance of having a cricket club based in the city.

"As research has highlighted, a project of this kind could have an extremely positive impact in decreasing the amount of anti-social behaviour within the city," added Rider. "The initial plan is for the club to be focused around junior development, with cricket and organised coaching for 9-15 year old boys and girls.

"There are already two cricket squares at Hoglands Park, which was the focal point of club and parks league cricket in the city.

"Hoglands Park was never a venue for any cricket club, as such, but the pitches and outfields are more than adequate for a community junior club," Rider stressed.

Plans are afoot to appoint a part-time development officer to achieve the aim and Rider wants to hear from persons interested in such a role.

"To begin with, the project will involve coaching in primary and secondary schools to generate interest and then lead towards coaching sessions and matches based at Hoglands Park involving children from within the local area," he said. "Alongside the development of players for the club, facilities, volunteers, coaches and equipment are key elements that need to be identified in order for the club to become sustainable as soon as possible."

Rider stressed that applicants must be qualified ECB Level 1 coaches, with previous experience of coaching in a variety of environments and excellent communication skills.

"Previous experience of sports and/or cricket development is vital," he said.

Further information can be obtained from Rider at the Hampshire Rose Bowl or by telephoning 07768 552618.