CLL champions Rochdale have pulled a plum fixture in the first round of the Barclays Lancashire Cup.

They will entertain Bootle, the cup holders for the past three years, at Redbrook.

It’s a difficult draw for Rochdale who are negotiating with the Liverpol Competition side to play the 45-over match on Sunday 11 May.

Cricket club secretary Alistair Bolingbroke admitted it would be a a tough test for Simon Brierley’s team which last won the trophy at Old Trafford in 1994 when they beat Darwen.

He said: "Given that Bootle beat three CLL clubs on their way to the final last year it is obvious they are a class outfit.

"But given our home advantage, and the all-round depth in our team, I am confident we will give a good account of ourselves."

Three of the other CLL teams involved in the competition have been drawn away.

Clifton will travel to Walshaw, Norden will go on the road to play Manchester Association side Stretford, and Unsworth have a tricky encounter against Preston of the Northern League.

Heywood have secured a home tie against Wigan-based Norley Hall of the Merseyside and Southport Cricket Alliance.

The final will be at Blackpool Cricket Club on Sunday 14 September.