WALSHAW Cricketers have been training hard during the close season in the hope of regaining the Bolton Association title which they lost, after three successful years, by just a point on the last day of last season.

They begin their 2003 season with two friendlies this weekend at Astley Bridge and Ramsbottom.

The personnel are much the same as over the last few years.

Jonathan Fielding, as enthusiastic as ever has been retained as professional for the fifth consecutive season.

And, after captaining the side for the last six years, Rob Faulkner has been promoted to coach with Anthony Harris taking over the captaincy.

New players include the "experienced" Tony Kelly and Lancashire Cricket Development Officer James Brindle while Stephen Price is welcomed back to the team after his season's rest.

Great things are expected of the younger players, who have played so well over the last few years and are so much more experienced. One of their greatesr weapons is bowler Lee Chapman, aged 16, whose wickets in last year's Cross Cup Final were the key to success.

The second team has been strengthened by the return of some experienced Walshaw Players and will be under the leadership this year of Dave Leach.