EXPECT Colne to sprint to the top of the Marsden Lancashire League after capturing Ben Johnson as next year's professional.

But this 22-year-old South Australian will only be concentrating on his running between the wickets.

Johnson is a left-handed opener who hit an unbeaten 192 against Northern Territory in September.

And he has also knocked former Rishton professional and new Test star Greg Blewett down to fourth in the South Australia batting order.

Coach Jeff Hammond described Johnson as having "amazing strength and an ability to play spinners well".

Johnson takes over from last season's professional Scott Williams who, after a sucessful year at Colne, has decided not to return.

Colne chairman John Whiteside said last season's £9,000 excellent profit had enabled the club to chase a top name.

He said: "We've had another good financial year and pulled ourselves up from the doldrums.

"We did very well with Scott Williams last year but he didn't want to sign again.

"I hope that the traders and people of Colne will continue to rally round us."

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