FORMER East Lancs professional Brad Young is on a shortlist to replace Claude Henderson as paid man at Alexandra Meadows.

But the South Australian slow left-armer is yet to put pen to paper on a contract for the 2001 season.

East Lancs, who were third in the Transco Lancashire League last season, have spoken to a number of players in Australia and South Africa with Young among their preferred choices after his 57 wickets helped the club finish as runners-up to Nelson in 1998.

"We're hopeful of getting a quality professional, no matter who it is, and we should know one way or another over the next couple of weeks," said Larry Pearson, who is heading the chase for Henderson's replacement.

Rambsottom, who were just beaten to the title by Bacup last season, have again secured the services of Brad Hodge.

"We are delighted to have him back. I just hope we have a good summer and he scores plenty of runs," said cricket manager Mike Everett.

However, Hodge's form could be a problem for the Acre Bottom club. The Victorian recently posted four straight hundreds for his state side and could put himself in the frame for a place on Australia's Ashes tour next summer.

International commitments have already ruled out a return to Accrington for Nathan Astle but fellow Kiwi Chris Harris is still set to play for Nelson.

Enfield are awaiting the return of a contract as they close in on a batting professional to play under newly-appointed first-team skipper Mark Greenhalgh. He replaces Andy Barker who was hit by injury problems last season.

Burnley and Lowerhouse are yet to make their appoints for the coming season but all other clubs are fixed up.