SOUTH Wilts are wary of a potential New Milton backlash as they prepare for today's ECB Royal London National Club Championship group semi-final tie at Bemerton (1pm).

The Division 1 side ran South Wilts close in last year’s Southern Electric t20 Cup semi-final, eventually losing by 17 runs.

“They are a decent side, probably one that will be in contention for the honours this season,” warned James Hayward, who is free from Wiltshire commitments to play in the 45- over tie.

New Milton have made an encouraging start to the season, beating Hursley Park in their only league game, and knocking both Totton & Eling and Sarisbury Athletic out of the national cup.

Sunday’s winners will visit either Frocester or Potterne in the group final.

South Wilts: Morton, Abel, Mynott, Hawkins, Hayward, Cranch, R Pittman, S Pittman, Warner, Booth, Kidd, Richards, Ducellier.