The name of Oxford Caribbean has returned to the OCA League - and they look mounting a real challenge for the Division 1 title as the new season gets under way on Saturday (May 3).

Playing as Cowley, they romped to the Division 2 title last season, and look every bit as strong this time around.

They boast a potent bowling attack, with veteran George Stevens and leg spinner Steve Howard both capable of turning a match.

Dave Prosper and Andy Benman are the key figures with the bat.

Also back in the top flight are Witney Swifts following an absence of four years.

They should be a strong outfit, with captain Andy Fisher back to full fitness after a calf injury kept him out of last season's campaign.

Swifts have also kept hold of the experienced Omar Hussain - a target of Cherwell League side Shipton - and have snapped up the services of Rob Pratley and Alan Williams from Hailey.

Westbury, last year's runners-up to Hanborough - who have moved into the Cherwell League - will be among the favourites to go one better this time.

Under the captaincy of the experienced former Buckinghamshire batsman Richard Tredwell, Westbury also won the Airey Cup last term.

Brill's crop of youngsters, who finished runners-up in the Airey Cup, are also expected to be in contention.

Although talented wicket-keeper Andy Wynd has left to join his brother, Chris, at Thame, they still have some fine players in Will Buggey, who is blossoming with the ball, and Nick Judd, who has returned from university to add some backbone to the middle order.

Big-hitting Steve Shipperley has recovered from a serious injury he suffered last year, and will return to open the batting.

Freeland will be without star batsman Simon Hole following his move to join Cherwell League side Shipton.

Hook Norton, who are hoping key batsman Simon Richards puts his disappointing season last year behind him, look destined for mid-table.

In Division 2, Broughton and Horley will be aiming to bounce straight back into the top flight after last season's relegation, while newcomers Charlbury and Chinnor look strong.

Charlbury will be looking to young bowler Craig McCallum to continue his progress, while batsman Andy Timms has joined from Langford.