FOX LODGE FINISH FOURTH

Fox Lodge can look back on their return to the North West Premiership with considerable pride after establishing themselves as far more than mere survivors.

Indeed, for a spell the Ballymagorry side looked capable of producing one of the stories of the season. Going into August they were still firmly in contention for what would have been a historic first top-flight title, before their challenge faded late on.

Even so, a fourth-place finish — just a single point behind Tyrone rivals Strabane in third — represented an excellent campaign on their return to senior cricket’s top table.

At the heart of their success was Sri Lankan Gayan Maneeshan, who enjoyed an outstanding season with the bat. He amassed 820 runs at an average of 43.16, including seven half-centuries and a century, with a highest score of 133. His consistency gave Fox Lodge a reliable foundation throughout the summer. Jason Milligan was another major contributor, scoring 454 runs at 41.27, with four half-centuries, while Charlie Simpson added 408 runs and registered a century of his own.

There were further useful contributions from Alastair Doherty, who made 337 runs, and Brian Allen, whose 310 runs came at an excellent average of 44.29 and included an unbeaten 117.

With the ball, Levi Kerr led the way superbly, taking 29 wickets at 20.86 and recording two five-wicket hauls, with a best of five for 41.

Aaron Heywood claimed 21 wickets, while Adam Walker impressed with 18 wickets at 19.50. Skipper Jonny Robinson also enjoyed a productive season, taking 17 wickets at an economical 4.19 runs per over.

Not a bad season for the Ballymagorry side, but they can't rest on their laurels knowing they could do with an injection of quality to extend their depth, especially with the ball.

Fox Lodge batting

1. Gayan Maneeshan – 820 runs, average 43.16, highest score 133, 7 fifties, 1 hundred.
2. Jason Milligan – 454 runs, average 41.27, 4 fifties.
3. Charlie Simpson – 408 runs, including a highest score of 109.
4. Alastair Doherty – 337 runs.
5. Brian Allen – 310 runs, average 44.29, highest score 117*.

Fox Lodge bowling
1. Levi Kerr – 29 wickets, average 20.86, best 5-41, 2 five-wicket hauls.
2. Aaron Heywood – 21 wickets.
3. Adam Walker – 18 wickets, average 19.50.
4. Jonny Robinson – 17 wickets, economy 4.19.