Watkinson predicts open season

Watkinson and his Red Rose troops begin their quest for a first outright championship since 1934 against Warwickshire on April 18 knowing expectation is increasing at Old Trafford after they narrowly missed out behind the side from Hove last term.

Scroll down to read more:

"From my point of view, it is always very wide open - it is a very fickle competition," Watkinson said.

"We have seen champions relegated and we have seen sides promoted from Division Two who can be champions.

"With the availability of players from all over the world who sides can bring in as locums - lots of sides have taken up that opportunity - it is very difficult to predict how that will translate across into playing strength on the field."

Watkinson was speaking at the club's media day today and was flanked by captain Mark Chilton. The 30-year-old opening batsman, who is set for his third season at the helm, added: "For me, I just fully prepare myself that every four-day game you play in is going to be very competitive - end of story.

"That is just the way it is. You have got Surrey coming up from the second division - they are going to be a strong outfit - and you have also got Yorkshire, who seem to have turned things around a bit.

"But you can name anyone really. You know straight away that you are going to be in for a competitive game, whoever you play."

Watkinson and Chilton are look set to stick with the selection strategy that took them to within touching distance of the County Championship and the C&G Trophy last season.

The early absence of overseas pair Brad Hodge and Muttiah Muralitharan has given the captain and cricket manager a dilemma they are determined to solve by using the youngsters they have at their disposal.

The likes of Tom Smith, Simon Marshall and Steven Croft could all have an impact, while Academy graduates Karl Brown and Steven Mullaney are both pushing to be involved from the off.

Chilton continued: "Pretty much everyone in the squad has had a sniff of what it is all about. They know what is expected of them, and they know the standards they are trying to attain.

"The competition between them to push the senior guys is really fierce. I have no doubt that they will feature heavily because it is not just a case of needing 11 players anymore.

"In all four competitions, if you want to compete heavily, you have got to use the squad as cleverly as you can.

"The younger players are showing improved performances year upon year."

Before their trip to Edgbaston to kick off the new season, Lancashire host rivals Durham in two one-day friendlies at Old Trafford next Wednesday and Thursday.