After the near miss of their Premiership challenge in 2024, it was always going to be a tough campaign for Eglinton, but they will have been disappointed that it ultimately ended in relegation.
They were severely hampered by the early season decision by Liam Doherty to return to South Africa, obviously disillusioned by his handling by the NW Warriors, and the villagers found his 1000 plus runs, 20 wickets and outstanding fielding hard to replace. Doherty has found his way into the South African first-class system and scored a 32-ball half century earlier this week to underline his undoubted potential. Hopefully it won't be too long before he ventures back to Ireland.
Without him there was pressure put on their new overseas professional Lakshan Gamage, and the Sri Lankan was found wanting, especially with the bat where he struggled to adapt to Northern Hemispere conditions making 411 runs at 17.87.
The Millar brothers all passed 400 runs with Jamie topping the aggregates in making 446 runs at 26.24, just ahead of Andy 443 at 22.15, while Robbie hit 400 at exactly 20, while Andy Lucas scored 397 at 20.89.
Robbie Millar had an excellent season with the ball, his leg-spin taking 33 wickets at 21.12, also enjoying great success with the Warriors to take his tally in all competitions to over 50. If he keeps developing, who knows where it could lead?
Gamage enjoyed better fortunes with the ball as he claimed 20 wickets at 28.75, while other double figure contributions came from Jamie Millar (16), Andy Millar (15), Richard Wylie (11), and Dylan McElhatton (10).
There's no doubt that it's a blow to their pride to be relegated to the Championship, but it will give them a chance to reset and it won't be too long given their quality and depth that they are once again in the top flight.
EGLINTON BATTING
- Jamie Millar 446 runs at 26.24 (1 hundred, 1 fifty)
- Andy Millar 443 runs at 22.15 (2 fifties)
- Lakshan Gamage 411 runs at 17.87 (1 fifty)
- Robbie Millar 400 runs at 20.00 (2 fifties)
- Andy Lucas 397 runs at 20.89 (1 hundred, 1 fifty)
EGLINTON BOWLING
- Robbie Millar 33 wickets at 21.12
- Lakshan Gamage 29 wickets at 22.21
- Mark Averill 20 wickets at 28.75
- Jamie Millar 16 wickets at 23.25
- Andy Millar 15 wickets at 28.47
