PROMOTION back to the County Championship's top flight is the main aim for Somerset's new coach Andy Hurry, writes Richard Walsh.

Hurry, who took up his new post this month following the departure of Mark Garaway to the England camp, makes no bones about what he is looking to achieve in his first season in charge.

"I see improving our performances in the four-day game as the main goal for us in 2006 and to win promotion back to the top level," he said.

"I don't think we competed in the championship in 2005. There may have been phases in each game where we did compete, but not throughout.

"We've got to adapt and discipline ourselves, because there are going to be key parts in each game when we have got to play smart cricket.

"I have got no pre-conceived ideas as to who will be in the side, so everyone has got the chance to put their case forward.

"All places will be up for grabs so it's down to every one of the players to show what they are capable of."

Meanwhile, Somerset set off for their two week pre-season tour to South Africa on Saturday and leave the County Ground at 11.30am.