BEST mates Francois Haasbroek and Ockert Erasmus go head-to-head in a bid to wreck each other’s day as the Foster’s Lancashire League hopes to finally beat the weather at the third time of asking tomorrow.

Just two out of 14 scheduled games have been completed as the rain has ruled supreme so far – but all is set fair for the first day of a double header for the Bank Holiday weekend with full programmes tomorrow and Monday.

And the clash between reigning champions Lowerhouse and East Lancashire at Liverpool Road is one that catches the eye as House ace Haasbroek and East Lancs pro Erasmus go into Springbok battle.

The South African stars are close friends – but that friendship will go out of the window as soon as play starts at 1pm.

Ramsbottom are tipped to challenge strongly for the title this year and they look to play their first game against Rishton.

Jonathan Fielding’s men have added Nelson quick Sam Halstead to their ranks and he will play alongside another former Seedhill star Andy Hakin for Rammy, who also unleash South African run machine Pieter Malan.

Rishton went into the new season with a small squad and have been forced into making three changes despite not even delivering a ball.

Matt Nuttall, Matt Lambert and Nas Malik come in to the side for Shaun Wyse, Chris Lambert and Craig Smith, while Irfan Muhammed has quit Blackburn Road and moved to Northern League Preston.

Harry Boam makes his Haslingden debut as they welcome Colne to Bentgate, and Burnley head to Todmorden and hand a debut to ex-Darwen fast bowler Yakub Bhamji, while Bharat Tripathi is also set to play for Steve Brunt’s men following his return from a year as pro at Liverpool.

Nelson pro Shahzaib Hasan arrives in time for the Seedhill clash with Enfield – and new skipper Neith Thompson will be hoping his opposite number Adam Bracewell doesn’t repeat his 151 not out the last time he was in Pendle on the opening day of the season in the win at Colne.

Pakistani star Saeed Anwar should arrive in time for Church’s trip to Bacup, while Rawtenstall turn to explosive Kiwi Lou Vincent as sub-pro at Accrington.

Skipper Vinny Hanson is hoping Jandre Coetsee’s visa will be cleared early next week.