AUSTRALIAN top order batsman Josh Staines is set to beef up Droitwich Spa CC's attack in the Worcestershire League Division One this season.

Spa captain Steve Walsh is hoping that Staines can have the same impact that fellow Aussie batsman, Matt Leddin, made last season.

The Australian has some big shoes to fill after Leddin finished third highest scorer in the 2004 season.

Walsh said: "Josh has played at a pretty high level in Australia and could be a real hit for us if he settles in."

The Perth run-maker played for Rockingham-Mandurah 's Grade A team in the Western Australian Cricket Association last season. Droitwich's preparations for the season hot up next week with friendlies away at Pershore on April 23 and Studley the following day.

Walsh is hoping his side can go one better on the runners-up spot they took last season.

He said: "After last season all the players really want to go one better."