Cliftonville Academy have confirmed the signing of wicket-keeper batsman Hayden Melly for the 2025 season.

The 20 year-old previously played for Brigade and Ardmore in the NW Premiership.

In the season just past he scored 412 runs at 25.75 at a strike rate of 63.88, making two half centuries.

He wasn't able to displace regular Ardmore wicket-keeper Mark Chambers, but took eight catches in the outfield.

"I chose to move to Cliftonville Academy as they were offering a great opportunity to both bat and wicket-keep," Melly told CricketEurope. 

"I enjoyed my time in the NW, however felt like I was missing out on the opportunity to keep.

"I’m looking forward to a new challenge and hope to make a good impression in my first year in the NCU, both with the bat and behind the stumps."

Cliftonville Academy first-team captained Matty McCord welcomed the addition of the talented cricketer, who he feels will strengthen their squad.

"We are delighted to sign Hayden. We were disappointed  to lose Kian Hilton earlier in the winter, but we were extremely proactive and happy to get a player of Hayden’s talent to bat in our top order and keep wicket. 

"Hayden had a good first full season in the north west last year, a year of those conditions will hold him in good stead going forward and he will only continue to get better at his age. 

"He also has a lot of gears to his game and the ability to bat long which is perfect for what we need and brings a bit more balance to our batting unit."