Shaw's swoop for Sajid

SHAW have pulled off a coup for 2017 with the capture of former Lancashire and England bowler Sajid Mahmood as professional.

The Holebottom Clough hierarchy were "genuinely impressed' when they met up with the 34-year-old, who is spending this winter playing cricket in Australia.

Shaw president Mark Stafford said: "I telephoned him out of the blue and explained that the club were looking for a pro.

"We met up and he was a lovely bloke. We were all genuinely impressed.

"He is very keen and looking forward to implementing a few strategies, which all makes for an intriguing 2017.

"It's a one-year deal, but if he enjoys himself, you never know, that might be extended."

In his pomp, Mahmood was one of the hottest properties in the county game.

PERFORMANCES

Impressive performances for Lancashire and injuries to key players, saw him make his England Test debut in 2006 against Sri Lanka at Lord's.

He went on to feature in eight Tests for his country, which included the 2006-07 tour to Australia, as well as 26 one-day internationals.

A Lancashire career which had started in 2002 came to an end in 2012 when he joined Somerset on loan.

He then had a two-year spell at Essex, before his release in 2014.

Mahmood, who lives in Bolton, played for Rotherham Town last year.

Meanwhile, as part of their 120th anniversary celebrations next year, Pennine Cricket League club Shaw have organised a gala dinner on Friday, August 4, at SportsDirect.com Park. Ex-Middlesex and England spinner turned commentator Phil Tufnell is the guest speaker.

Meanwhile, Lancashire have confirmed that bowler Nathan Buck has joined Northants on a three-year deal.

The 25 year-old had one year remaining on his contract at Emirates Old Trafford, but has been released out of his contract early in a mutual agreement with the club.

The former Leicestershire fast bowler who joined the Red Rose in September, 2014 suffered an injury-hit first season for the club, featuring in just two games before spending last winter in Sydney playing grade cricket for Manly CC.

Buck went on to play a further 17 games for Lancashire this season in all competitions, taking 12 wickets in this year's NatWest T20 Blast including T20 career best figures of four for 26 at Edgbaston against the Birmingham Bears.

Lancashire director and head coach Ashley Giles said: "I would like to thank Nathan for his efforts over the past two years and wish him well for the future."