Lancashire have today added promising English batsman Adrian Shankar to their professional squad for the next two years.

Ascot-born Shankar, aged 23, has an impressive University and club resume, but due to completing his Law Degree at Cambridge University (Queen’s College), his cricketing ambitions were put on hold until 2006.

After finishing his degree, 2007 saw this former Middlesex Academy Member and Under19’s Captain represent the MCC in higher level games against the UCCEs and the MCC Young Cricketers.

Adrian spent some time with Lancashire during the 2008 pre-season period. He then spent the first half of the season playing for Kent’s Second XI where he impressed with the bat, before returning to Lancashire in August to play in the county’s Second XI team.

Cricket Manager Mike Watkinson says: “At Lancashire, we have a very successful Academy Programme which has so far produced nine players who have gone on to sign professional contracts.

"Adrian is a quality young batsman who fills a gap in our player development programme. He has attracted interest from a number of other counties which confirms his potential.”

Adrian said; “Lancashire was always my preferred destination when deciding on my future. My father spent his formative years in Liverpool and retains great affection for the area.

"Even though I have grown up in the South, I have an emotional tie to the North West, and my experience of the people there has only reinforced that.

“I know competition for places will be fierce, but that is healthy for the Club. I had a positive spell in the SecondXI this year, and the senior players were very open and welcoming.

"The coaches and the facilities at Old Trafford mean that the infrastructure is available for me to develop and become an important part of Lancashire's future.”