ANDY Bartley has a hard act to follow in Australian Test player Peter Sleep - but he is ready to give it his best shot.

The new Rishton captain has taken over from the retired Sleep - and he can't wait for the action to start against Rawtenstall on Sunday.

"I am really excited," said the 31-year-old. "It is an honour to be captain and it will be a learning curve.

"For ten years I have just turned doing my own thing but now I have got a lot on my plate with selections, training etc - it is a full-time job but I am excited."

Rishton finished what they felt was a disappointing eighth in the league last season but won the prestigious 20/20 competition.

"I think we really embraced the 20/20 competition last year," said Bartley.

"We got good crowds and we really enjoyed it. It was fantastic so to have another good run in that cup would be good.

"And we aim to finish as the top Hyndburn side after missing out to Enfield last season. We want to be up there challenging as high as possible."

Although Sleep is a huge loss, Rishton hope Pakistan pro Saeed Anwar Junior will make a big impression.

The opening batsman has played in the Central Lancashire League in the last few seasons.

"He has got stacks of runs in the Central Lancs League and he is proven so it is a really good move by the club to get him," said the captain.

"He is sub-pro-ing for Great Harwood tomorrow (Sat) so he can blow his cobwebs away. The good thing is Saeed will be used to the conditions and he has only just finished playing back home so he should be straight into it."

Bartley knows the league is wide open.

"As usual, a lot will depend on the pro. Burnley, Bacup and Ramsbottom will be strong again though."