LANCASHIRE today signed 18-year-old Littleborough leg-spinner Chris Schofield on a two-year contract.

Schofield has been opening the batting for Littleborough in the Central Lancashire League for the last three years, but it is his ability with the ball which alerted Old Trafford.

Second team captain Peter Sleep, a former Australian Test leg-spinner, has always been keen to bring another bowler of his type to the club and explained: "A good leg spin bowler is a potential match winner and Chris will be given every chance to develop his ability."

Schofield, from Wardle High School, has represented Lancashire at Under-15 and under-16 level and has been trialling with Lancashire's second team this season. But the contract offer still came as a big surprise. "I couldn't believe it came so soon because I have only played a few second team games," he enthused.

"It is a fantastic opportunity for me because I have always wanted to make a career in cricket.

"Peter Sleep has given me a lot of encouragement and he has also helped me to improve my bowling action." Head coach Dav Whatmore said: "This boy has considerable potential. A good leg spin bowler is a match winner these days and Chris will have every opportunity to develop his special ability here at Old Trafford. Peter Sleep, our second eleven coach will be an important influence on Chris."

Schofield's signing is bound to arouse extra excitement from Lancashire members because he is a leg-spinner. As Shane Warne, who arrived in England this week, has proved, they have no rivals as match-winners and Lancashire would love one in their Championship side.

Lancashire's most recent leggies have been Mike Atherton, who was making encouraging progress until his back problems, and before him Nasir Zaidi.

"I am ambitious," added Schofield, "but I know I will have to work hard."

He was in action for the seconds against Glamorgan at Fleetwood today.

The start of Lancashire's Championship game against Notts at Old Trafford was delayed this morning due to a wet wicket.

Lancashire were fielding four seamers and returning skipper Mike Watkinson as the only spinner.

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