| Player: | SA Whitehead |
Rawtenstall have signed former Rochdale professional Sean Whitehead as professional for 2023.
Whitehead had two seasons at Rochdale in 2021 and 2022.
Arriving at the end of June he played in ten matches, scoring 403 runs at 40.3 and taking 19 wickets at 25.7.
He also took 3-26 against Norden in the Worsley Cup semi final to help Rochdale reach the final and he also helped the club reach T20 Finals Day.
The South African took 42 wickets at 10.7 and scored 173 runs at 15.7 with a highest score of 44 in 16 Lancashire League matches in 2021.
Two former amateurs are also returning to the club.
Dean Barlow returns from Lowerhouse and Sam Kershaw returns to the club from Rainhill in the Liverpool Competition.
A happy Rawtenstall Chairman Vinny Hanson Said:
"This is fantastic news for the club to add three undoubted quality players to the team.
"We are all aware of the struggles we have faced over the past few years on and off the field.
"Both Dean and Sam previously left to better themselves and whilst it wasn't great to see them go you always hope that you make improvements and an environment that they will want to return to one day.
"Its pleasing that we have managed to do that.
"Both lads know what its like to wear the Rawtenstall badge and are both keen to help us on a new journey to raise the standard of the cricket section on matchday, at training and around the club in general.
"I would also like to welcome Sean to Rawtenstall both personally and on behalf of the whole club.
"After last season it was always the intention from the Cricket Committee to get the pro situation boxed off as early as possible.
"Having had a couple of lengthy conversations with Sean, it was very clear that with his desire to coach, train hard and be part of a growing project, he was the right man for us to lead us in the direction we want to go.
"Add that to his all-round ability on the field, it became a very easy decision and we are delighted he has accepted the challenge.
"Thanks to Robby Ashwell of Ace Cricket Exchangefor facilitating the process in such an easy and professional manner."