Lancs move for Loye

Loye turned down a contract offer from Northants

Lancashire have bolstered their line-up for 2003 with the signing of former Northants batsman Mal Loye.

Loye, 30, who turned down the offer of a new contract at Wantage Road, will fill a gap left by the retirement of Neil Fairbrother and Graeme Lloyd.

In an 11-year career at Northants, Loye has made 8,349 first-class runs at an average of 37.77.

"Mal will add some additional quality to the top of our order as we look to build on the progress of last season," cricket manager Mike Watkinson said.

"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."

Loye said that he was thrilled by the signing.

"I am at a stage where I want to continue to improve and kick my career on," he explained.

"Lancashire have got exciting times ahead and I am looking forward to being part of it."

Warren Hegg has been confirmed as captain for a second season, and Watkinson has had his contract extended by one year to the end of the 2005 season.