RAMSBOTTOM have already begun planning for next season after confirming the signing of South African all-rounder Senuran Muthusamy as professional.

The arrival of the left-handed batsman and spinner, nicknamed Seni, who represents the Durban Dolphins in South Africa's franchise league, followed confirmation that 22-year-old Tom Parton would remain as captain.

Director of cricket Andy Dalby said: "I really wanted to get things sorted for the 2018 season as soon as reasonably practicable.

"Next year represents a new chapter in the Lancashire League with the addition of five further clubs and Seni was the stand-out choice to take the team forward, having just been to Zimbabwe on the Emerging Players tour. 

"Having spoken to our past professional Daryn Smit, who knows Seni well, it was an easy decision for the cricket committee.”

Muthusamy, aged 23, has a highest first-class score of 181 and recently hit 53 for the Emerging South Africans against Zimbabwe A in Harare.

Ramsbottom skipper Parton added: “Seni is a well-rounded cricketer with both bat and ball. Being a genuine all-rounder he should hopefully offer us threat and control with the ball, as well as strengthening our youthful batting line-up.

"Seni has been a mainline spinner back home, and is a determined top order left-handed batsman, who will grind down the opposition.

"We look forward to welcoming him to the club for the 2018 season.”