MATT Pardoe has stepped down as skipper of Kidderminster.

The former Worcestershire opening bat is unavailable for the club's remaining trio of Birmingham League fixtures owing to his work commitments with Sherbourne School in Dorset.

But Pardoe confirmed he would not be leading the side next season.

Pardoe was unable to feature for Kidderminster during the first half of the season because of his role as Director of Cricket at Sherbourne.

Since returning to the fold, Kidderminster have been a transformed side having won seven and drawn two of their last nine games.

As a result, Kidderminster are closing in on runners-up spot behind champions Berkswell.

Pardoe claimed: "If we can win our remaining fixtures, it would take us to 14 wins, which in previous seasons would have been sufficient to win the league."

Former Worcestershire team mate Neil Pinner will resume the captaincy for the remainder of the season and Pardoe added: " I'm confident the players can continue their winning streak.

"I will still continue to play for Kidderminster when work allows but not as captain, because I feel they need someone here the whole time.

"We just have to make sure we nail second spot now. I just wish I could have played more!

Kidderminster entertain next to bottom side Walmley at Chester Road on Saturday, with the visitors fighting to retain their Premier Division status.

On Sunday, Kidderminster travel to Walsall for the Williamson Trophy Final.

Pardoe revealed the side will include a couple of youngsters with George Hatfield and Sam Beadsworth both set to play.

The impressive Pardoe has also been making his presence felt at Minor Counties level.

He has led Herefordshire to third place in the Minor Counties West Division and then followed up by skippering the side to lift the Unicorns Trophy after beating Staffordshire in the final.

Pardoe's partner-in-crime Neil Pinner also represented Herefordshire while Kidderminster colleague Mike Hill featured for Staffordshire.

Pardoe revealed: "There were no less than 14 Birmingham League players on parade in the final, which was a wonderful advert for them."