RIBBLESDALE League: Chris Lawrence previews the new season
LANCASHIRE legend Ian Austin will give Baxenden an extra dimension - in more ways than one - this year.
The larger than life all-rounder, known as ‘Oscar’ ,will be looking to fill the missing links from an ‘almost’ season in 2007.
A thrilling title race saw Bash squander a 14 point lead over Blackburn Northern.
They lost to their rivals with three games to go and also missed out in the Ramsbottom Cup final to double winners Northern.
But in disapointment captain Mark Rishton prefers to see promise.
"I’m not going to say I enjoyed finishing second in both competitions but we improved over the season and we’re expecting to improve again this year," he said.
New pro Will Purser, 24 from the Lancashire 2nd XI, will add runs and wickets, but most eyes will be on Austin, 41 - after he misses the first game against Earby.
The 1999 Wisden Cricketer of the Year set the record for the fastest ever First Class century in 1990, and Rishton hopes his experience will rub off on the younger players.
"We’re looking towards some of the younger lads to come forward this year.
"Callum Waddington made 600 runs last year so he’s a big player for us."
He also highlighted bowler Dominic Bulcock - Man of the Match in last year’s cup final - and batsmen David Cronshaw as players to watch.
Rishton is confident Bash can go one better this year, but is aware the competition is tougher than ever.
"There is a few who can win on their day if they perform, particularly Great Harwood and Settle.
"But our preparations have been good.
"We’ve been having indoor nets since February. We have had a friendly against St Annes, which we won and we’ve been down to Sidmouth for two games last weekend.
"We set off really well last year, and we’re looking to repeat that."
Rishton will be hoping his new signings can bring some beef to the end of the season as well.
Baxenden
Last year: 2nd
Pro: Will Purser
Verdict: Champions.
