JAMES Franklin has been called up to play in the Third Test against England next Thursday.

Rishton's New Zealand pro, who is averaging over 40 and taken 20 wickets in the Lancashire League this season, has made two previous Test appearances and played in 24 one-day internationals for his country.

He has certainly made a difference to Rishton's form this season as he helped last year's wooden spoon winners beat the champions East Lancs at Alexandra Meadows yesterday.

Franklin made 35 as Rishton chased a target of 220-8. Paul Tuner and Phil Mercer both made 47 and David Pearson added 42.

It was Sam Hacking who inspired Rishton to victory as he hit 65 not out from just 36 balls. His half century arrived in 28 deliveries.

CHURCH

v ACCRINGTON

ANDREW Bentley was the star of the show as Church romped to an 81-run home win over Accrington.

Professional Ruvin Peiris continued his sparkling form with the bat in the first innings. The Sri Lankan hit nine fours on his way to 72, while Mark Aspin impressed against his former side, ending on 85 not out thanks to 12 fours and one six.

Accrington professional Tama Canning bettered his conterpart in the batting stakes, hitting 88 off 94 deliveries, but he wasn't sufficiently backed by his team-mates as Bentley took career best figures of 7-79.

BURNLEY v NELSON

IT was a disappointing afternoon for Burnley, particularly David Connolly, who sustained a thumb injury after taking 5-63 and was unable to bat.

Chris Heap (49) , Paul Garaghty (36), Joe Scuderi (31) and professional Cameron Cuffy (35 not out) all proved big hitters for the visitors as they posted a target of 209.

Burnley's innings was slow, but it wasn't helped when Jonathan Clare went for a risky second and was run out when he looked promising on 33.