Hit-man Loots ready to fire

CRICKET: TAKE cover! Stand-and-deliver batsman Loots Bosman is in action for Greenfield tomorrow against Droylsden in round two of the Saddleworth and District League’s Tanner Cup.

The 33-year-old, who is standing in for injured professional Kamran Hussain, opens the innings for the South African Twenty20 team and is currently in this country playing for Derbyshire in the t20 competition.

Bosman, who hails from Kimberley, is an explosive performer. He smashed 94 from just 44 balls against England in the winter, sharing an international Twenty20 record stand of 170 with captain Graeme Smith.

The one-off capture of Bosman is quite a coup for Greenfield, who expect a large crowd at Ladhill Lane.

Skipper Jonathan Ainley said: “Loots’ quality could make all the difference as Droylsden are a much-improved team this season.

“He has a lot of experience and has certainly got the X-factor. His performances against England over the winter showed what he is capable of.

“Hopefully he will also attract a few more people.”

Big-hitting Ben Willis is in red-hot form as Saddleworth prepare to face holders Bamford Fieldhouse.

The 24-year-old right-hander hit a superb 130 against Shaw, his maiden ton in first-team cricket.

Saddleworth, who are second from bottom, will need an equivalent personal display to have any hope of upsetting high-flying Bamford.

Willis said: “They are a good team, but it’s a one-off game and we’ll give it a go.”

Moorside will be looking to end a long losing run when they visit Hollinwood.

The Turf Pit Lane outfit have failed to record a victory since their second-round success over Shaw on May 22.

Hollinwood started the season poorly, but are showing signs of recovery after the arrival of professional Aamir Bashir.

Stayley, who were put in their place by Bamford last weekend, are at home to last season’s beaten finalists Uppermill.

Tomorrow, Tanner Cup, round two: Hollinwood v Moorside; Saddleworth v Bamford Fieldhouse; Stayley v Uppermill; Greenfield v Droylsden.

Sunday, league: Stayley v Saddleworth; Glodwick v Bamford Fieldhouse; Moorside v Greenfield; Friarmere v Heyside; Uppermill v Droylsden; Austerlands v Hollinwood.