LANCASHIRE all-rounder Luke Procter is struggling to break into the county’s first team at the moment, but at least the 26-year-old can claim to have the perfect cut stroke.

Procter, currently in the county’s second XI, is combining life as a cricketer with the early stages of training to become a barber through the Professional Cricketers’ Association.

He spent time during the winter working at Ruger Barber in Saddleworth, and has passed his NVQ Level One on basic cutting skills. He is now working on Level Two, which includes styling.

The left-handed batsman and right-arm seamer is even trying out his new skills on his Red Rose colleagues, including cricket director and head coach Ashley Giles, who says he went for “a George Clooney look”.

“Luke was a little bit nervous, but he’s very good,” said Giles.

“He’s got a good hairdresser’s chat, and he did a very good job on me.

"He used the clippers on the side and the back, then the scissors on the top and a comb-over for a George Clooney look, which is what I asked for.

“He has done most of the lads, and it’s great to see Luke using the skills that he developed during the winter. He takes it very seriously.”

Procter said: “That was a bit nerve-wracking to be honest, cutting the hair of your boss. But Ashley seemed to like it. He said it was the best haircut he has ever had.

“I just put a chair in the toilet area of the dressing room and get it done. I don’t charge them.

“I have a friend who is a barber, so I have always taken an interest. The long-term idea is to try to get my own shop and go straight into that when I’ve stopped playing cricket.”

Giles is delighted to see players such as Procter looking towards the future, especially during the winter months: “You can’t just keep hammering away in the nets,” he added.

“I’m very open to guys going away and learning some new skills and doing personal development.”

Procter will not be involved when Division Two leaders Lancashire take on second-placed Surrey at the Oval tomorrow in their seventh LV= County Championship match.

Captain Tom Smith could return for only his second match of the season after recovering from a back injury. Lancashire have won four out of six so far.