CLAUDE Henderson is proving to be a fast-emerging star in his first season with East Lancs. But the South African all-rounder goes into a big weekend double-header stressing the value of teamwork for the EW Cartons Lancashire League side.

The first round of the inter-league knockout with the Central Lancashire League tomorrow sees East Lancs facing a big test at Littleborough, as they attempt to repeat last summer's feat of making a major challenge for honours on three fronts.

They won the Worsley Cup and finished runners-up in both league and inter-league cup.

But Henderson, whose left-arm spin has already created havoc for opponents such as Bacup, Colne and Accrington, won't listen to any premature talk of chasing trebles.

"It is still very early days. We can only play it game by game and, hopefully, keep winning," he said.

"The whole team has to play its part. Nas (Iqbal) and Ian (Haworth) have both bowled very well, Phil Mercer has shown good captaincy and the fielding has been excellent.

"We have a nice spirit in the side too."

The professional, who admits he does not "have a clue" what to expect from Littleborough, is pleased by his own performances so far but believes the amateurs have made it easier for him.

The signs are healthy for another major East Lancs challenge but Henderson is taking nothing for granted and that attitude will be needed tomorrow. Littleborough are probably the strongest team in the CLL and their pro, Queensland's Clinton Perren, is rated as a top batsman.

The Aussie is in his second season and hit 181 as Littleborough won last year's Wood Cup final.

Chris Schofield, the Lancashire leg-spinner, also plays for Littleborough when county commitments allow.

Another of the stronger teams, Rochdale, boast a good batting pro in Robbie Baker, who was sub-pro for East Lancs in last seasojn's Worsley Cup final. He will have to be contained if Church are to progress.

Current CLL leaders are Walsden, having played a game more than their rivals. They are at home to Colne with South African professional Gideon Kruis having picked up 30 wickets in five games.

Holders Haslingden are one of six Lancashire League sides with home advantage. They entertain Radcliffe at Bentgate.

Tomorrow's first round ties are: Crompton v Burnley, Enfield v Heywood, Haslingden v Radcliffe, Littleborough v East Lancs, Lowerhouse v Milnrow, Middleton v Rawtenstall, Norden v Bacup, Ramsbottom v Werneth, Rishton v Oldham, Rochdale v Church, Stand v Nelson, Todmorden v Ashton, Walsden v Colne.

Accrington, Royton and Unsworth have byes.

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