THE Bolton Association representative side has a new look for its defence of the inter-league cricket trophy.

Injuries, retirements and player moves means that half the side that helped win the title last year will be missing when they meet the Saddleworth League at Flowery Field in the first round on Sunday week.

Tony Kelly takes over as captain from Steve Walsh and will lead a side containing six newcomers to the senior inter-league side.

"You can't replace players such as Steve Walsh, Paul Matthews, Graham Marston, Richard Sutcliffe and Andy Cumberbatch overnight but we have chosen a side we feel can do the job," said Kelly.

"A lot of them are young players but they are good players and that's all that matters. They won't let us down."

Fifteen years old Clifton wicketkeeper Gareth Cross is the real surprise package of a side that incudes several players not much older than him.

Adam Coates of Blackrod was only 17 when he helped the Association triumph last season and he keeps his place while drafted in are Jamie Birch of Daisy Hill, Jonathan Fearick of Atherton, Astley and Tyldesley captain Simon Nicklin and Little Hulton's Mark Lee and Andy Sutherland.

They line up alongside some of last season's heroes, Terry Southworth of Blackrod, Andy Fox of Spring View and Walshaw's Brett Collins.

Manager Derek Bannister said: "There is an injection of youth into the side but some of them have deserved their chance for some time. The more experienced players will play their part and Tony Kelly will provide strong leadership from the front. I think we can do well again."

Squad: Tony Kelly (Clifton) captain, Jamie Birch (Daisy Hill), Adam Coates (Blackrod), Mark Lee (Little Hulton), Gareth Cross (Clifton) wicketkeeper, Brett Collins (Walshaw), Simon Nicklin (Astley and Tyldesley), Terry Southworth (Blackrod), Andy Fox (Spring View), Andy Sutherland (Little Hulton), Jonathan Fearick (Atherton). 12th man - Mark Penny (Daisy Hill) batting, Duncan McNally (Adlington) bowling.