ESTABLISHED New Zealand Test batsmen versus up-and-coming young Aussie sounds like a classic case of master against apprentice.

But Accrington's new professional Nathan Astle is experienced enough to acknowledge that certainly won't be the scenario as he prepares to make his home debut in tomorrow's EW Cartons Lancashire League clash with Colne.

"Apprentice" Ben Johnson has already earned his stripes the hard way by setting a new league runs record last summer.

And Astle, who gave England a thing or two to think about during the winter, is eagerly anticipating the chance to get to grips with the young man who proved a scoring sensation in his first league season.

"It's certainly going to be interesting to see how he does this year," said Astle, who has been impressed by everything about his welcome - apart from the weather!

"Maybe some sides have worked him out after what was obviously a tremendous season.

"I don't really know too much about him, except that he scored a lot of runs.

"But he's going to be our main target tomorrow and if we can get him out cheaply then that will give us a better chance."

Joining a side which has struggled of late could place an extra burden on the professional's shoulders.

But it's a two-edged sword and Astle gives the impression it won't cause him any sleepless nights.

"From the sounds of it, they have had a struggle and I think that means extra responsibility for me. They are going to ask a lot of me," he admitted.

"But, on the other hand, after finishing last, anything better than that is going to be an improvement.

"I don't think we are going to win the league but we want to show a big improvement.

"It will be good to play at home and I'm looking forward to it. Now I just want to see some sunshine." There's a big game at Blackburn Road, where champions Rishton take on Ramsbottom, one of the sides who have pushed them hard in the past two seasons.

Read professional Shahid Nawaz deputises as professional for Rishton, who have already been beaten once by their visitors.

The teams met in the new opener to the season, champions v cup holders, and Ramsbottom were comfortable winners.

New South Wales colleagues Brad McNamara (Haslingden) and Shane Lee (Enfield) find themselves on opposite sides at Bentgate where no quarter will be asked, or given.

Jo Scuderi, in England on holiday, was due to stand in for his old club Nelson today and again at home to Church tomorrow.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.