KEIGHLEY have begun preparations for the 2018 season by signing former skipper Paul Quinlan.

The 28-year-old all-rounder returns to Lawkholme Lane and the All Rounder Cricket Bradford Premier League from Aire-Wharfe League neighbours Harden, where he was captain in 2015 and 2016.

A Keighley boy, Quinlan will add much-needed experience to Keighley’s young first team in both the batting and bowling department.

He previously played for Keighley from 2007-2013, starting off in the under-17 team before progressing through the senior ranks.

Quinlan has also experienced two seasons of cricket in Australia, playing for Hampton Cricket Club during one of these stints.

Keighley have links with the Melbourne-based club as several other Keighley players, including Max Davidson and brothers Ross and Alex Towler, have represented Hampton.

Paul, who is chomping at the bit to get started with Keighley, said: “I have had many good years previously down here at Lawkholme, I still know many of the current playing staff and cannot wait to reconnect with old team-mates.

"Keighley are a big club and should be higher in the league structure than they are (Championship Two, two divisions lower than the Bradford Premier League).

"I look forward to helping them move up the tables."

With Quinlan now back in the ranks, Keighley are hopeful of completing several more signings within the next few weeks.