Merrion have signed Leinster professional Peter Francis, while Andrew Doheny has also joined from Rush.

The double swoop strengthens the quality and depth of the playing personnel at Anglesea Road, and Head Coach Nicky Kenny is delighted to have the talented duo on board.

"We are excited to have both players join Merrion," Kenny told CricketEurope.

"Peter showed his quality last season in helping his former club win the All Ireland and come second in the Leinster league. His skill set with his seam bowling and middle order batting is something we feel will really add to our team in Merrion.

"Andrew is a young man who at 20 years old is a great addition to our squad. These days it’s important to have a strong competitive squad with the amount of cricket we play over all competition’s and players availability tested with commitments outside of the sport. 

"I never encourage talented players to move clubs but I understand that sometimes they want a new challenge and myself and the club try the best we can to help players achieve their playing goals."