In what is by far the biggest move of the cricket off-season so far, Glenn Blakeney has taken his explosive bat to Social Club.

After weeks of speculation, the prolific run-getter yesterday put an end to the rumours, confirming his transfer to the First Division club where he will follow in the footsteps of his grandfather, the late Algernon Blakeney.

The former Bailey?s Bay and St.David?s all-rounder is the latest Premier Division cricketer to join ranks at the Angle Street Club following fast bowler Kenny Phillip?s recent decision to turn out for the perennial First Division cellar dwellers.

Though it has yet to be confirmed, other top cricketers said to be headed to Social Club include former St.George?s and Bermuda skipper Charlie Marshall and Western Stars seamer Kevin Hurdle.

The Bermuda Cricket Board transfer period expires on March 31.

Their squad bolstered by the arrival of both Blakeney and Phillip, Social Club could find themselves in unfamiliar territory, challenging the likes of Somerset and PHC ? relegated last season from the Premier Division ? for promotion.

?I just thought it was time for me to move on and take on a new challenge at Social Club. It would be nice to see them finish on top of the league for a change because they have always been on the bottom,? said Blakeney.

?I think my job at St.David?s is complete. They were looking to put some more silverware in the cabinet and that?s what we achieved.?

During a four-year stint at Lord?s, Blakeney helped the Islanders to a clean sweep of domestic honours in 2002 and last season to KO Cup glory, though the left-handed batsman struggled through injury. Blakeney cracked what is believed to be record 303 not out against Bay and compiled over 1,500 runs in all competitions during the 2002 season, only to be pipped by Albert Steede for the coveted Cricketer of the Year award.

Having won every domestic title, Blakeney relishes the challenge which awaits him at his new club.

?There?s not really much more for me to strive for domestically. I considered going back to Bailey?s Bay but then decided to give Social Club a try for a season or two before my career ends.

?Besides, my grandfather played for Social Club and he always said he would like to see me play for the club at some point in time, though back then I never gave it any thought,? he added.

?I am looking forward to the new challenge playing at Social Club and I think my move will be good for cricket in general in Bermuda.?

Asked whether playing in the lower division would affect his cricket, Blakeney said: ?Definitely no . . . although I will miss playing at St.David?s.?

The St.George?s Cup Match player said former coach Clay Smith took his decision to part company in stride.

?He (Smith) didn?t say too much . . . he just wished me the best and said he was happy for the amount of time I did stay at St.David?s,? added Blakeney. ?When I left Bay (2001) to go to St.David?s I didn?t expect to be down there that long. I liked their (Islanders) programme and administration and the youngsters were very motivated down there.?