DARREN MICHAELSON will be returning to Radcliffe for the 2001 season.

The opening bowler spent last summer playing in the Saddleworth League, but has opted for a return to the Racecourse.

Steve Dearden will continue as professional and Graeme Simpson as captain, but there will be at least one new face after the Central Lancashire League opened the door again to overseas amateurs.

The proposal was put up by Unsworth and backed by Radcliffe, who are already scouting for a batsman out in Australia.

The club will be playing at the Racecourse again next season and don't anticipate any further developments on the proosal to move to a new complex at Cams Lane until a buyer can be found for their present ground.

New secretary Ian Hayes said: "For the club to progress we need to do something because the Racecourse is falling down.

"Until someone comes along saying here's £50,000 we can't do anything.

"I've been a member for 30 years and I'd prefer to stay at the Racecourse, but it's just not viable.

"The money for the new venture at Cams Lane will have to come from selling the present ground."

Indoor nets start at Radcliffe High School on February 17 and new juniors are welcome to attend.

Radcliffe's Australian batsman, Bruce Cruse, who is employed by the English Cricket Board, will be there to help out with the kids along with several of his team-mates.