Leyland cricket star Karl Cross has dedicated his first league hundred in four years to his team-mates.
The 21-year-old blasted 109 off 95 balls on Saturday against Carnforth.
His debut Northern League ton was against Chorley at Windsor Park in 2006.
Cross, who spent the winter playing club cricket in Australia, has struggled this season despite
the fact the Fox Lane club are the runaway leaders of the Northern League.
The stylish batsman said: "It was probably the best I've ever batted on Saturday. When I got to a 100 with a single down to third man I probably just felt relief more than anything else.
"It was nice to make a contribution to put the team into a match-winning position, although we ended up with a winning draw.
"I probably put too much pressure on myself. This season more than most you don't want to be a passenger.
"Watching the likes of Chris Parkinson and Andrew Makinson do well has been great and it has made me more determined to contribute.
"I really enjoyed my time in Australia and my bowling really came on.
"I 'd like to see myself as an allrounder but I know I have to build on it and make sure it's a kickstart for the rest of the season."
Cross praised the contribution of the club's South African pro Brett Pelser.
"He's been fantastic and I've been working with him in the nets," he said.
* FULL STORY IN THIS WEEK'S LEYLAND GUARDIAN
