ATHERTON CC completed their pre-season preparations on Saturday with a 40 over friendly against a full-strength Haslingden side.

After three defeats they played out a creditable draw against the Lancashire League side that contained their new professional, Queensland state player, all-rounder Jerry Cassell who scored a century and took two wickets on the day.

For Atherton there was a top class all round performance from Phil West who followed up 71 not out with the bat by clean bowling both Haslingden's professional and captain to finish with 2-24 from four overs.

Thankfully for the Higham Park faithful, West has pledged himself to the club for a further season.

Skipper Paul Brown conceded just 16 runs from eight tidy overs and there was further evidence of good things to come from 14-years-old Karl Brown who opened the innings with a well constructed 22.

The home side finished on 180-4 from 40 overs while Atherton's 40 produced 125 for the loss of five wickets.

The Bolton Association season starts this Saturday with Atherton's away fixture against Lostock rescheduled for Higham Park due to the unavailability of the Lostock Lane ground.

On Sunday, Cheshire side Davenham visit in the first round of the National KO competition.