RISHTON have snapped up Pakistan professional Saeed Anwar Junior for the new season.

The 28-year-old left handed opening batsman comes to the Lancashire League for the first time as a full paid man although has had spells as a sub pro at Haslingden, Nelson, Church, Lowerhouse and his new club.

He comes with plenty of experience having played in the Central Lancashire League for Crompton and, last year, Royton.

He amassed 1192 runs, with a top score of an unbeaten 163, and averaged 54.18.

The slow left arm orthodox bowler also took 59 wickets, averaging 22.07 as Royton finished in the lower half of the table.

He will be Rishton's third Pakistani pro following Aftab Baloch (1975-6) and Anwar Khan (1979).

Anwar replaces Australian Lachlan Stevens who was unable to return to Blackburn Road due to a shoulder injury.

Meanwhile, the draw has been made for the 20/20 competition with holders Rishton, Enfield, Church and Accrington all in Group One with East Lancs.

The first clash is between East Lancs and Church on May 31.