PADIHAM skipper John Bushell is happy enough with his young side’s Ribblesdale League season to date – and believes the Arbories rebuilding job will only make the club stronger.

Padiham were forced into many changes over the winter after the loss of a host of key players.

But Bushell and new professional Chris Holt are looking to develop new talent to make the side great and have developed a ‘Team Padiham’ mentality.

“We knew this season was one of consolidation,” said Bushell.

“Over the winter we lost three of the league’s top batsmen, our captain and our wicketkeeper and there are not many sides in any league that could cope with that sort of blow.

“We have decided to develop our own talent and we are now a young side and give players a chance.

“We have people like wicketkeeper Kurt Robinson. He is only 18 and is looking really good.

"I think he is the best wicketkeeper in the league and that can only be good for the club.”

Despite the rebuilding job Padiham are having a decent season and beat Great Harwood at The Cliffe before going down to Cherry Tree in a thriller.

That defeat was harsh on Nesir Mehmood, who hit a brilliant 159 to fall just one run short of the Padiham amateur record held by Earl Eddings.

“He didn’t deserve to lose,” said Bushell.

“It was an incredible knock and you just don’t see the like from amateurs.

“He never had a single chance and it was terrific to watch.

“But fair play to Cherry Tree, they came back really strong to win the game and they deserved it.

“We just go now and get ourselves ready for Salesbury on Saturday.”