Lucas-Jones hits ground running

EZRA MOSELEY . . . recommended Anton Lucas-Jones to Championship side Friarmere

ANTON Lucas-Jones has made an instant impression for Friarmere in the JW Lees Brewery Pennine Cricket League.

Drafted in as the club's overseas amateur, the West Indian stepped off the plane on Wednesday, attended his first net session 24 hours later and then was thrust straight into the Slack Lane side's Twenty20 Cup encounter against Rochdale on Friday.

Lucas-Jones instigated two run outs, held a catch and hit 15 runs in a game which saw Friarmere win in a super over after the scores finished tied.

It was then on to the Championship meeting with high-flying Milnrow and the 22-year-old again made his mark.

Primarily a wicketkeeper, Lucas-Jones proved he is more than useful with the ball, recording figures of four for 28 in helping to dismiss the hosts for 171. To complete a fine individual display, he added 43 with the bat.

His efforts, though, were in vain as Friarmere slipped to an 85-runs defeat.

Lucas-Jones has followed in the footsteps of two West Indians at Slack Lane, Liam Sebastian and Dario Cummins ­- and all three were recommended by a former Test player well-known in local league circles, Ezra Moseley.

The fearsome fast bowler, who played two Tests for the Windies, created havoc among batsman while starring for Oldham and Littleborough in the Central Lancashire League.

Friarmere's Gary Kershaw explained: "I've kept in touch with Ezra from when he played over here and historically he has been our go-to man.

"The Barbados Cricket Association have really good as they have part-funded the trip.

"Anton has fitted in really well and everyone really likes him."

Lucas-Jones' love of cricket saw him turn down the chance of a contract with a Major League Soccer franchise ­- he was attending Atlanta State University at the time ­- and return to Barbados.

Friarmere will be hoping they can benefit from the youngster's brave call.