Pro problems continue

CASH-strapped Oldham Cricket Club are on the look-out for a professional after hopes of signing a paid man for 2009 fell through for the second time.

The Pollards club originally re-engaged last year’s professional, Chinthaka Jayasinghe, following his sparkling 2008 Lake Garage CLL season.

But his selection for the 25-man Sri Lanka squad for June’s Twenty20 World Cup meant he could not guarantee his availability.

Oldham then turned to 20-year-old South African all-rounder Hendrick van der Dussen, but his move has also been shelved following problems with a sponsor licence issued by the UK Borders Agency.

As Oldham’s cricket section falls under the umbrella of Oldham Sports and Country Club, there were technical difficulties over van der Dussen’s move to England.

Oldham CC spokesman Chris Mayer said the club had huge financial difficulties and the player’s approval involved a £400 deposit, which they could have lost.

”We just ran out of time with all the paperwork so it has now been decided to look for an England-based professional whom we hope to sign by the weekend or early next week,” said Mr Maher.

Oldham have been further rocked by news that first-team skipper Mel Whittle will not be playing for the club this season.

Whittle, groundsman at the Pollards and a senior club official, has decided to fulfil an ambition to play for a season with his son, Tom, who is captain of Micklehurst in the Huddersfield League.

Chris McDonnell is the new Oldham skipper, with Paul Thompson his vice-captain.