JONATHAN Finch will lead a much-changed Lowerhouse side when the new season kicks off in April.

The 23-year-old takes over from the club's most succesful skipper Joe Beneduce - the man who lifted the league trophy and Worsley Cup in consecutive seasons - who has stepped down to concentrate on his own game.

Chairman David Wren said: "The committee would have liked him to carry on but we fully understand his reasons for stepping down.

"It was always the intention that Finchy would succeed Joe and although that time has come earlier than expected we are very confident in Jonathan's abilities."

On Beneduce stepping down, the club's cricket manager Stan Heaton said: "On behalf of all personnel at the club, I would like to congratulate Joe on being the first and only skipper to bring the championship to the club and thank him for the manner in which he has led the side.

"Joe had a great first year in winning the championship and a very successful second year despite the loss of key players through injury and transfer."

And there will be more comings and goings at Liverpool Road this season.

Lancashire Under 14s star Max Howells has joined from Ribblesdale League side Read with Phil Edmondson also set to sign for the club from Burnley.

But batsman Bharat Tripathi and Chris Astin have both announced their intention to leave the club.

Heaton added: "It is always bitterly disappointing to lose players but we have to recognize that sometimes club needs and player expectations are some way apart."