The club have lost the services of former skipper Jonathan Finch for the year.

A recent change of role with the ECB and circumstances beyond his control will mean that Finch is unable to play cricket on Sundays, and he has transferred to Rainhill in the Liverpool Competition.

Cricket manager Stan Heaton said: "This is a serious loss for the club as Finchy is an outstanding league cricketer.

"But we respect his decision and accept his need to play 25 games a season, rather than 10.

"We wish Finchy well. At this stage this is for one season only, and we plan to see him back at Lowerhouse in 2010."

Meanwhile, the West Enders stepped up their preparations for the new campaign with victory over Lytham.

Lytham posted 158-9, with Scott Hope (2-11), Fergus Bailey (2-15), Joe Hawke (2-29) and Johnny Russell (2-30) among the wickets.

In reply, a nail-biting finish to the game saw Patrick Martin strike a four off the last ball to win by three wickets.

Martin ended unbeaten on 37, with other contributions from Finch (40), Charlie Cottam (20), Jack McGregor (19) and Stuart Grant (14).

Lowerhouse continue their preparations with home games against Heaton and Sale tomorrow and on Sunday.

Burnley's final pre-season game is against Rawtenstall at Turf Moor on Sunday.