LAST season's Inter-League Challenge Cup runners-up Nelson have been a handed a tough draw in the first round of next season's competition.

The Lancashire League champions must travel to Littleborough in the competition for Lancashire League and Central Lancashire League clubs.

Holders Crompton entertain Rawtenstall, while the pick of the first-round ties, which will be played on Saturday, May 13, is CLL champions Rochdale versus East Lancashire.

Inter-League Challenge Cup first round: Middleton v Accrington, Ramsbottom v Stand, Norden v Todmorden, Bacup v Walsden, Crompton v Rawtenstall, Enfield v Ashton, Littleborough v Nelson, Burnley v Oldham, Milnrow v Lowerhouse, Haslingden v Royton, Heywood v Colne, Church v Werneth, Rochdale v East Lancs. Byes: Rishton, Rawcliffe, Unsworth.

Ramsbottom have confirmed the signing of Victoria batsman Brad Hodge as their professional for next season.

The 25-year-old right-hander bats at number three for his state side and also bowls off-spin.

Terry Braithwaite has been replaced as captain at Ribblesdale Wanderers, despite leading the club to Ramsbottom Cup glory and second place in the Ribblesdale League last summer.

In a three-way vote, David Howard was appointed as the new skipper in place of Braithwaite and Graham Monk.

"I am very disappointed. We won the cup last year and finished as runners-up in the league for two years on the trot. I felt we were going in the right way," said Braithwaite, who is still considering whether to stay on as a player.

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