THE only way is up for 1000/1 Lancashire League outsiders Accrington.

And South African all-rounder Chad Grainger is the man charged with the task of breathing fresh life into Thorneyholme Road.

For a famous club, who boast five league championships, their last in 1975, the wooden spoon in 1995 proved a bitter failure.

But already, just a month into his appointment, the enthusiastic Grainger is convinced genuine progress can be made.

"We are not going to win the league. But if we finish half-way up the table then I would see that as the equivalent of winning the title," declared the professional.

"Cricket is my life. I live and breathe the sport. It is my job. I want to try and restore confidence, stability and belief to the Accrington players.

"When I arrived here there was not much team spirit around. Everybody appeared very down. I sense that is changing though.

"We have to win a few games first and change the habit from a losing one to a winning one. That is the main priority.

"We have to look to the future also. From what I've seen there are some good players at this club,.

"We have a wicketkeeper batsman, Russell Edmonds, who I think can really play. I know Accrington have lost a lot of experience but I firmly believe there is a lot of talent at the club. We need to bring that out."

Accrington are the only Lancashire League side without a win this season. Although, after a narrow defeat at the hands of leaders Lowerhouse last weekend, confidence is high for tomorrow's head to head with East Lancs when Grainger faces big South African mate Billy Stelling. "We should have beaten Lowerhouse, but tomorrow is a fixture I am relishing," added Chad.

Grainger is not a complete stranger to the rigours of English conditions. He toured England with Transvaal in 1994.

The 23-year-old even harboured hopes of making the South African A team party, who arrive here next month under Clive Rice, but narrowly missed selection.

He admits the wet conditions have taken their toll. But added: "I'm getting used to the wickets now and the lads say that the sun might even shine before I go back home!

"I know Accrington can improve as a team and my job is to help them do just that."

South African pace-king Allan Donald is set for a rapid return to action tomorrow when champions Rishton take on Enfield at Blackburn Road. Donald missed last weekend's action with a foot infection.

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