CREGAGH

Cregagh go into the season with a new skipper at the helm in Robert Moore, and he is naturally full of enthusiasm for the campaign.

"We’ve had a really strong pre-season, with an excellent indoor programme led by our new Director of Cricket, Graham Watt," said Moore. 

"The intensity and quality at nets have been first-class with a focus of tighter lines and more consistency all round. We’re now ready and eager to get outside and continue to progress."

It's been a busy close season at the club with some high profile departures and arrivals.

"In terms of squad changes, we say goodbye to Adam McCormick and Jonny Moore, who both move on to CI after many years of outstanding service. Adam in particular has come right through our youth section since under 11 level. We thank them both and wish them luck in their new challenges.

"We’re delighted to bring in Peter Davison, who adds real experience from over a decade at Premier League level with North Down. He’ll strengthen our seam attack significantly and create healthy competition alongside Alastair Watt and Max Shannon - that battle for leading wicket taker should be an exciting one.

"We’ve also added some exciting young talent in Zedd Khan (23), Aaran Bennett (19), and Aidan Michael (20). They’ve been a breath of fresh air during pre-season, bringing energy and quality with both bat and ball. 

"It’s also great to welcome back Adam Skelton and Abhiraj Tandon. Skelto will be keen for another eight wickets to join the 100 club for CCC, while Abhi has had a strong pre-season and is pushing hard for a place in the first XI."

There's no rest for the wicket and Moore appreciates a strong start will be pivotal if they are to improve on their seventh place in Section One in 2025.

"Looking ahead, we’ve got a busy start with at least nine matches in May, so it’s important we hit the ground running and build early momentum. The goal is to put points on the board early and give ourselves the best possible chance of finishing as high as we can.

"Most importantly, the mood in the camp is very positive. We’ve prepared well, we’re excited to get out in the middle, and we’re looking forward to enjoying our cricket together this season," Moore concluded.