BIG hitting New Zealander Luke Woodcock is to return to Church this season - and they are hoping for a repeat show of his home performances.

Woodcock has been starring for his side Wellington Firebirds in New Zealand and is averaging 80 with the bat.

"At present, he has the highest number of runs in New Zealand, he hit a staggering 220 not out against Central District and his batting average is 80," said Church stalwart Jack Houldsworth.

"He is having a really good season and we are hoping he can repeat it over here."

Woodcock had problems with his visa last year, missing the first two months of last season, and only arrived in late June as Church got knocked out of the Worsley Cup and Twenty20 competition at the semi-final stage in one weekend.

"It should be a lot more straightforward with his visa this time," continued Jack. "It was hard for Luke when he came over. He had not played cricket for a couple of months as he waited to come here and he was straight into the pressure situation of two semi-finals.

"He had not seen the North of England, never mind get used to the wet wickets.

"It was really hard for him but now he comes back to the club with a good season behind him, he’s got the experience of the Lancashire League and he is in-form.

"He should be here for the start of the season and the lads all wanted him back."

New Blackburn Road captain Andy Bentley said: "It’s great news for us. When he came here, he got on really well with the lads, he was always around the club and, just as he was getting used to the wickets, the season finished.

"I think it will make a big difference to have him for the full season. We are all really excited.

"I am looking forward to being captain. I hope to carry on what Phil (Gilrane) has done for the last few seasons. I don’t need to change much and hopefully it will go well."