Kian Hilton is on the move opting to join North Down from Cliftonville Academy.

The 19 year-old Irish youth international is highly rated in Irish circles, although he had a somewhat modest season at the Castle Grounds scoring 470 runs at 24.74, that included a century.

It's been quite a busy close season thus far for North Down who unveiled Tyron Koen from CIYMS as their new captain, while there was also a return to Comber for Woodvale all-rounder Aditya Adey.

Hilton's defection is a big blow to Cliftonville Academy who gave the South African born teenager his first opportunity in the NCU top flight, and are clearly disappointed by the switch.

North Down finished the season in sixth place but with the trio of new signings will feel confident of a major challenge for silverware in 2025.