ROGER Harper may have seen it all in a magnificent career.

But even he couldn't hide his emotions yesterday as Nelson completed the formalities of their second successive Lancashire League title with another fine performance to destroy Rawtenstall at the Worswick Memorial Ground.

The giant West Indian punched the air in jubilation before exchanging high-fives with ecstatic team-mates as the men from Seedhill clinched a record-breaking 21st championship.

But whether it was a victory salute or an emotional farewell only time will tell as the popular spinner contemplates his future with the Lancashire League club.

Ironically, Harper had something of an off day as Nelson set about securing the four points necessary to head off the challenge of title-rivals East Lancs.

But in the end they didn't really need him as Danny Kegg and Craig Walton set up a crushing nine-wicket victory which secured the title by nine points.

Nelson were simply irresistible as they completed their task with the kind of professionalism which has become their trademark over the last two years.

It's no wonder, then, why skipper Duncan Spencer was visibly glowing with pride after watching his side emulate last summer's achievements. "This feels sweeter than last year," said Spencer.

"A lot of people wrote us off because of the new rule changes but we've proved to everyone we're the best again.

"Last weekend's victory over East Lancs was obviously crucial but we still hadn't won anything.

"We knew we'd be in for a tough game against Rawtenstall.

"But we just kept the same form and rhythm going and, fortunately for us, it worked out.

"Danny Kegg bowled really well. He's been magnificent in the last two games and that's helped us to keep the pressure on.

"And Roger has been tremendous all season.

"But he'll be the first to admit we are not a one man band. We've proved that throughout the season.

"At Accrington, for instance, we were 60-odd for six with Roger back in the tent.

"But we still managed to pull it around and it's games like that which have swung it for us.

"At the end of the day, league tables don't lie.

"We've only lost four games all season and we are worthy winners."

Rawtenstall did look capable of being party-poopers for a while.

Opener Peter Seal (33) and professional Billy Stelling (38) played some delightful strokes as the home side laid the foundations for a decent total. But they slumped from 79-2 at the drinks interval to 127-6 in the face of some fine bowling by Kegg (4-45).

And Harper then snapped up two tail-enders as Rawtenstall lurched to 137-9 by the close.

That was never going to be enough on an ideal batting track once openers Spencer and Walton put together a superb stand of 75 to set Nelson on their way.

Spencer finally went for a stylish 36. But that didn't deter Walton or Harper who closed in on an initial target of 118 to ensure the title stayed at Seedhill.

A swashbuckling four through the covers from Walton triggered the chants of 'championies' as that target was met. Then Harper got in the carnival mood with two massive sixes off successive deliveries before he wrapped it up with a push through mid on.

That sparked joyous scenes as Nelson's players and fans rejoiced as one.

But when the dust settles they will then begin the task of persuading Harper to stay.

At the moment, he is hanging on to see if a job with the West Indies first team becomes available. But if that doesn't materialise, then a few more Lancashire League batsmen can expect some more sleepless night's next season.

"We want to sign him but it just depends on what happens with the West Indies," said Spencer.

"If the manager's job or a coaching role with the West Indies first team comes up then he will probably want to take it."

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