Lester earns Lancashire deal

Giles said of the ex-Fylde Cricket Club player and former Baines School student: “Toby has impressed everyone at Old Trafford.

“Left-arm seamers are a valuable commodity, and we are delighted to offer him the opportunity of staking a claim in the first team.

“He worked very hard over the winter and impressed on his debut.

The 22 year-old Lester made his Red Rose debut against Essex at Old Trafford last month and took three for 50 in the first innings with Lancashire going on to draw the match.

Having progressed through the Lancashire Academy, Lester has been a regular fixture for the second XI this season.

He said: “It’s always been a dream of mine to play for Lancashire and to be given my first professional contract at the club is amazing.

“Working with people like Ashley Giles and Glen Chapple will only help me to improve my game and I’m already looking forward to getting a full pre-season under my belt.”

Lester’s colleague Luke Procter has also signed a new deal with Lancashire.

Procter, who also came through the club’s academy before making his professional debut in 2009, has penned a new one-year deal.

The Oldham-born all-rounder said: “Playing cricket for Lancashire is all I’ve ever wanted to do and I’m glad that I’ve got another 12 months here.

“I will be determined to force my way back into the first team and challenge for a starting role in all competitions next year.”

Giles said: “Luke has got a lot of experience under his belt and as an all-rounder is a vital asset to our squad.”