FORMER Radcliffe captain Martyn Coates has joined East Lancs Paper Mill.

Coates’ one and only season as skipper saw Radcliffe relegated last year from Division Two of the Greater Manchester Cricket League.

He stepped down after a handful of games in charge this season but remained at the club and was regarded as one of their most talented batsmen.

Current captain Michael Farley, who has seen an upturn in results since taking over, praised the dedication Coates has shown to the club.

“Martyn needed a break to recharge his batteries after what was a gruelling campaign last year,” said the skipper.

“He has been a great servant to the club, amassing 17 years here, playing his way up through the ranks and taking on the responsibility of captaincy during what was a difficult time. We wish him all the best at ELPM.”

Coates’ final game for Radcliffe was not a memorable one, as Farley’s men lost by 14 runs despite bowling out basement club Edgworth seconds for 82.

None of the top seven batsmen made it to double figures, with Farley trapped lbw for a duck. Coates was dropped down the order to number nine, but could not stop the collapse after being bowled for six.

The result saw Radcliffe drop from top to third in Division Three.

Coates’ new club, meanwhile, had a great weekend.

ELPM moved up to second in Division Four West with a 74-run victory over Walshaw seconds, and booked their place in the semi-finals of the First XI Championship Cup with an eight-wicket victory over Division Three side Irlam.