NATAL batsman Mark Bruyns, 25, has had to pull out of a deal to sign as Barnoldswick professional for this summer.

The South Africa A team star has been offered a new job for the off-season in South Africa and been forced to give backword to the Ribblesdale League club. Barnoldswick secretary Phil Brown said: "It's disappointing. We had agreed terms and believe he would have been a very good signing. He has an excellent CV, has toured twice with South Africa A and scored a century against the touring Australians."

Barnoldswick will now start again from scratch and are hoping that Bruyns may be able to recommend a replacement.

Simon Cook, who has played in two Tests for Australia, is looking for a league professional's job this summer.

Cook, 26, is rated as one of the quickest bowlers in Australia. He began his career in Melbourne but has since moved from Victoria to New South Wales. Earlier this year, Cook had a lucky escape in a near-fatal accident when he fell off the back of a steamroller!

Any clubs interested in him can contact Haslingden cricket chairman Ernie Taylor at Bentgate.

Neil McGarrell (Church) and last season's Rawtenstall professional Keith Arthurton have joined up with the West Indies squad for the one-day series in South Africa.

Church have already agreed terms with McGarrell for this summer.

Rishton CC hold their Social Club agm at Blackburn Road on Monday. The cricket agm is the following Monday, January 25. Both meetings start at 8.15pm.

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