IMPRESSIVE all-rounder Shawn Flegler is not to return as Lowerhouse professional.

Flegler scored 962 runs at an average of 45.8, took 74 wickets at 19.01 last season.

And he helped Lowerhouse to sixth position in the Marsden Building Society Lancashire League with the highest number of wins and bonus points in it's recent history.

But the left-hander has had to succumb to pressure from his state Queensland to remain in Australia during their close season.

It is understood Queensland want him to have intensive coaching on his bowling with a view to becoming the state left arm spinner in succession to Peter Jackson and Allan Border who are close to retirement.

Lowerhouse are hugely disappointed as Shawn had an impressive impact on all the players at the club individually and collectively and real progress was being achieved.

The club are now actively engaged in finding a replacement for 1996 and have produced a short list of potential professionals.

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