Lancashire County Cricket Club is pleased to announce the signing of former Northants batsman Mal Loye. 30-year old Loye, a right-handed batsman, has over 8,000 runs to his name in first-class cricket, with an average of 37.77 and a highest score of 322*.

Cricket Manager Mike Watkinson commented: "Over the last couple of years, we have lost a number of experienced batters such as Atherton, Crawley, Fairbrother and Lloyd, Mal will add some additional quality to the top of our order as we look to build on the progress of last season."

He continued: "Ultimately our future is in the hands of the county's up and coming players, but we feel it is the right time to supplement this with a player who has a proven track record."

Mal added: "I am thrilled to have the opportunity to join a county such as Lancashire. I am at a stage where I want to continue to improve and kick my career on, Lancashire have got exciting times ahead and I am looking forward to being part of it."

Lancashire are also pleased to reappoint Warren Hegg as Captain for the 2003 season and Cricket Manager, Mike Watkinson has had his contract extended by one year to the end of the 2005 season.

© Lancashire CCC