EAST Lancs stalwart Ian Howarth once attempted to retire from first team cricket -- but it's now the last thing on his mind as he bids to help his side to their first Tranco Lancashire League title for ten years.

The 48-year-old describes himself as "offically a second team player" after stepping down two season's ago.

But he has played every game for the first team so far this season as East Lancs moved into second spot.

He's chipped in with 36 wickets and despite saying he is a 'slight doubt' with a hamstring injury for this Saturday's game against defending champions Nelson at Alexandra Meadow -- he knows he'll be there.

"We did have a nine wicket win earlier this season against them but we still want to pay them back from last season," admitted Ian.

"They beat us twice -- including the final game of the season when we faced each other to decide who would be the champions. Roger Harper then won it almost single handedly for them.

"Their new pro, Keith Arthurton, has been a bit inconsistent this season but on his day, like all the professionals in the league, he could win it on his own for them."

Howarth has been delighted with the form of his own paid man Claude Henderson who is still thinking about whether to sign up for third season at East Lancs.

He's got 420 runs this season, on course to beat his 460 from last season.

"All the players want Claude to stay but it's down to the finances. It should be sorted out in the next few weeks."

OTHER GAMES: Burnley v Haslingden, Church v Lowerhouse, Colne v Todmorden, Enfield v Bacup, Ramsbottom v Accrington, Rawtenstall v Rishton.