DARWEN have moved swiftly to secure a professional for next summer.

Promising Indian all-rounder Nikhil Chopra has agreed to join the Vaux Northern League side.

The 21-year-old off-spinner and middle order batsman is a regular with the Delhi state side.

He has also been chosen for the Indian squad taking part in the Challenger Cup and has represented the Indian World Cup 'B' side.

Chopra was sub-professional for Northumberland League side Hawthorn for 12 games in 1996, averaging 102 and taking 55 wickets at 7.47.

He was highly recommended by Blackburn Northern professional Chetan Sharma.

Chairman Peter Lamster said: "We do not have a good spinner and hopefully he will strengthen the batting as well as the bowling."

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