STEVEN Crook has again been given the chance to press for a first team place after being named in the squad for today's Championship game with Middlesex.

Al though the 20-year-old all-rounder may not make the final eleven at Lord's he is clearly held in high regard at Old Trafford.

When Peter Martin was ruled out of the Totesport League game with Kent last week it was Crook that came into the team, ahead of the more experienced seamer John Wood.

Crook, born in South Australia, is an aggressive cricketer and this comes through in his skiddy pace bowling and hard-hitting lower order batting.

He is also a terrific fielder, one of the reasons he is forcing his way into the one-day team.

Lancashire captain Warren Hegg said: "Steven is a whole-hearted cricketer with a lot of talent.

"He worked hard in pre-season and he is reaping the rewards.

"We see him as one of the players who will keep the pressure on the established members of the team. It is always good to have plenty of competition for places."

Today's clash with Middlesex is an important game for both sides.

Lancashire are currently in third, two points behind the London-based team, who have been a surprise package this season with an emerging side.

They have an exciting duo of overseas players in quick bowler Nantie Hayward and all-rounder Lance Klusener as well a strong batting order.

England one-day batsman Andrew Strauss is due to land at Gatwick airport this morning and is planning to head straight to Lord's to the play in the match.