STRABANE
Captain: Kevin Gallagher:
Overseas professional: Ranitha Liyanarachichi
Players in: Subhan Shirzad
Players out: Usman Azhar, Nasir Nawaz
Young players to watch: Conor Graham, Andrew Mullen

Things couldn't have gone much better for Strabane in 2024, picking up three trophies as they won The Championship, Sammy Jeffrey and Sperrin Springs cups, as well as reaching the final of the National Cup.

For captain Kevin Gallagher it was a dream start to his reign, but he knows it will be a much tougher proposition in 2025 in the Premiership.

The club have lost the services of overseas player Nasir Nawaz who was such an influential figure, while opening paceman Usman Azhar has returned to North County.

The Red Caps though will have Subhan Shirzad in their ranks, having made such an impact with St Johnston last year. Their choice of overseas professional is Ranitha Liyanarachichi, a 30-year-old right-arm fast bowler and middle-order left-hander, who has plenty of first-class experience in his native Sri Lanka.

"We have put in some hard work over the winter and are looking forward to the new season," said Gallagher.

"We know it's going to be a big step-up, and are looking forward to the challenge. We've a good squad and it's a great feeling to be back in the Premiership."

Strabane will be a tough proposition for all clubs, especially at the Park, and with John Mooney in their ranks once again will be nobody's fools.