NORTH COUNTY
- Captain: Eddie Richardson
- Overseas professional: Lochie Hardy
- Players in: Husnain Maroof, Badu Zaman, Mohammed Zaman (North Kildare)
- Players out: none
Eddie Richardson is at the helm once again for North County and the former Irish all-rounder has genuine grounds for optimism as the Balrothery side have strengthened their squad considerably over the close season.
There's a new overseas professional in Lochie Hardy. The 24 year-old is a right-arm seam bowler who is also a more than useful hard-hitting middle-order batter. Hardy is highly rated in his native Australia and has featured for Western Australia Second XI. He is certain to be a valuable asset for the Balrothery side as they look to recapture past glories.
They are also boosted by the arrival of a trio from North Kildare, with Badu and Mohammed Zaman plus in-demand all-rounder Husnain Maroof, who was coveted by quite a number of clubs but opted for County.
There are no outgoings but former skipper Niall McGovern's availability will be severely curtailed due to work commitments away from home.
Their ace in the pack could well be Suliman Safi with the former Afghanistan U19 international resident here and looking to force his way in to the Irish set-up. Indeed, if he can produce more of the fireworks he did while scoring 131 for Munster against the North West last year, then elevation might not be too far away.
North County have a number of highly promising youngsters who will be all the better for being a year wiser, with Jake and John Devane, Johan George and Mohammed Sherzad all expected to make significant contributions.
"We know it will be a tough season but we have worked hard and are hopeful of doing well in what is going to be a competitive top flight," said a club spokesperson.
"We hope to improve even more after winning the Championship last season.
"There is plenty of quality and depth to the squad and we are all looking forward to the upcoming season."
