HIGHLY rated Australian all rounder Michael Toolis will join the ranks at Kendal next season.

'MJ,' as he is usually known, a talented left-handed opening batsmen who can also bowl leg spin, has been confirmed as the club's overseas amateur for the 2020 campaign

And club skipper Chris Miller said he was delighted to have the 25-year-old on board as the Shap Road men look to build on last season's dramatic escape from relegation last season and make a real impact in the Northern League next season.

"He's a great player and we're really looking forward to him joining the squad," said Miller.

"He has experience in English conditions which is a big plus point when you are playing for a club in the North of England.

"And even better, he already has a level three coaching qualification which means he will be a great asset to the club especially for our younger players."

Toolis has a wealth of experience in high quality cricket in Australia and spent last summer at Gloucestershire County League side Lydney where he scored 718 league runs and took 21 wickets.

Miller said 'MJ' had been performing well for his club in his home city of Brisbane this winter and is a hard working, committed player who is set to be a great asset to the Auld Greys.

Kendal are still actively searching for a professional for next season and hope to clinch a deal shortly, and Miller said efforts would continue in the New Year to strengthen the squad.

Kendal will need to hit the ground running as they kick off their Northern League campaign with a trip to reigning champions Leyland on April 18.

Their first game at Shap Road is the following Saturday, April 25, when they host Fulwood & Broughton.

In the 40 Over Cup, the Auld Greys have been drawn at home to Chorley in the first round with the tie to be played on Sunday, May 10.

The league's revamped T20 competition sees the 13 teams divided into two groups of six.

Kendal's only home action is a double header against Blackpool and Morecambe which takes place on Sunday, August 16.

Cumbria Cricket have also made a signing this week with the appointment of Laura Kay as women's and girls' growth manager.

Ms Kay, who will take up her duties in the New Year, is based near Penrith and will be working with clubs to grow the women's and girls' game and drive its sustainability within Cumbria.

Her background is in communications and she plays rugby union for Kirkby Stephen based Upper Eden RUFC where she has been involved in successfully growing the women's section.