ARDMORE
Captain: Harry Zimmermann
Overseas professional: Syed Junaid Ali
Players in: None
Players out: Dharm Singh, Ryan Brolly, Rachit Gaur, Ciaran Roundtree, Haydn Melly.
Young players to watch: Mujeeb Rahman, Bobby Brolly

After the highs of their Premiership win in 2023, last season was one of struggle and Ardmore only survived relegation thanks to a play-off win over St Johnston.

The close season hasn't been kind to the Bleachgreen club with skipper Rachit Gaur stepping down, taking a sabbatical, while Dharm Singh is making the short trip to Bonds Glen. Ryan Brolly has emigrated to Australia, while Ciaran Roundtree is staying in his native South Africa, and Haydn Melly trying his luck in the NCU.

Their depleted squad looks to be lacking in both depth and quality and new captain Harry Zimmermann acknowledges it will be a tough campaign for Ardmore.

"It's been quite a challenging off-season with a few of the key players from the last couple of seasons not there anymore," said Zimmermann. 

"That's going to leave opportunities for the younger guys to step up and make their mark. 

"Realistically, it's going to be a rebuilding year, where we can develop a strong culture on and off the field. We will be looking to play a tough, gritty brand of cricket that may not be pretty, but one where we can play as a team, scrapping and clawing for as many points as we can. We want the opposition to know they've been in a tough fight and we aren't going to roll over easily.

"Junaid Ali is our new professional, who is coming over from Pakistan. he has a strong first-class record, and although he is listed as a wicket-keeper batsman, he bowled spin in his previous stints as an overseas player in the UK. He will give us some experience in the leadership role, and hopefully he enjoys his time at the club."