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Corrie Jordaan told Rishton last night that he would not be returning as professional, with the new Lancashire League season just over a week away.

The South African spin bowler says he has a major back problem which could need surgery.

Though sources in South Africa claim he is about to take a new job back home as a groundsman.

Jordaan's decision has plunged Rishton, Lancashire League champions in 1995 and 96, into a desperate search for a new professional.

And, with the time it takes to obtain a work permit, it seems certain they will have to arrange substitute professionals for their opening few matches. Club chairman Rod Simpson heard the news in a telephone call from South Africa yesterday.

He said: ``He tells us he has a back problemn and, after having a second opinion, may need surgery.

``In the past weeks I have spoken to him regularly and he has insisted he would be here for the season. Like everyone else we have heard the rumours and speculation that he would not be returning.

``But what can you do when the man himself continues to say he will be coming?''

Even though they had been continually assured by Jordaan that he would be returning for a second season, I understand Rishton had started to make unofficial contingency plans to seek a replacement.

The club have already been in contact with a number of agents in a bid to sign up a new pro but, with the better players already committed to the World Cup and most of the rest snapped up by rivals, they face a tough task.

Money will also be a factor as Jordaan, despite his success with the ball, was one of the less-costly professionals in the Lancashire League.