CRICKET: Joe Scuderi will be returning to Colne this summer for his eighth season in the Lancashire League.

The Australian all-rounder was one of the most prolific performers in the league during a six-year stint with Nelson.

After a year's break he returned with Colne last year, helping them reach the final of the Worsley Cup.

And captain Gary Laycock is delighted to have secured the services of the South Australian for a second term.

"We're very pleased about it. He did well for us, getting to a cup final and finishing half-way up the table after it took a bit of time to get used to the rules," said Laycock. And with the amateur ranks being strengthened by the return of Steve Woods and Paul Wilson, Laycock is looking forward to a successful campaign at the Horsfield.

Meanwhile, Nelson and Ramsbottom are both hopeful that last season's professionals will return this summer.

But the availability of both Roger Harper and Ian Harvey could depend on the World Cup plans of the West Indies and Australia.

Champions Nelson have been negotiating with Harper and skipper Duncan Spencer said: "We are hopeful as there are only a few things to sort out and I think Roger is keen to come back.

"But he is already on the West Indies coaching staff and there could be changes at the top after what has happened in South Africa. That might cause problems for us with the World Cup coming up."

Similarly, Ramsbottom expect Harvey to return to Acre Bottom, provided he is not called up by Aussies for their World Cup bid.

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