IAN Kimberlin is set to step down as Kidderminster Victoria’s team manager at the end of this season.

He has held the role since 2005 and believes it is time for a new man at the top to take the reins.

It means KVCC will have to find a replacement for the man nicknamed ‘Kimbers’.

He said: “I’ve been doing the role for eight or nine years now and I believe that is long enough.

“It’s time for someone with more energy to take over.

“There’s no great controversy and I will still be seen down at the club, if anyone ever needs some advice I will be more than happy to offer some.

“I think the highlight was the 2011 season when we went into the last day of the season and almost won the league.

“It’s probably my greatest high and lowest low because we missed out.

“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time here as team manager.”

Meanwhile, KVCC are hoping that the emerging opening partnership of Charlie Stainforth and Worcestershire regular Matt Pardoe will end the team’s woes at the top order.

Stainforth, 20, scored a century for the seconds against Bridgnorth and they will open the batting together for the first time this weekend.

Both Henry Wright and Andy Kimberlin, who were tried together in last weekend’s losing draw against Berkswell, will play for the seconds on Saturday.

The Chester Road side go to third-placed Brockhampton in the Birmingham Premier on Saturday (noon start) looking for their second win of the season.

Kimberlin said: “Charlie deserves his chance, he’s playing well and is full of confidence.

“He and Matt could be a good combination and it will be good for Charlie to open the batting alongside someone experienced.”

KVCC are also set to play Shrewsbury away in the semi-final of the Graham William Trophy on Sunday (12.30pm start).