Ardmore signal intent with double signing of Safi and Chester

Ardmore have signalled their determination to bounce back from a disappointing 2026 campaign with a major double signing as they look to build a side capable of challenging for honours in next season's North West Championship.

The Bleachgreen club have pulled off a significant coup with the capture of former Afghanistan Under-19 captain Suliman Safi from Leinster side North County, while also securing the return of former Phoenix All-Ireland winning skipper Adam Chester.

The arrival of Safi represents a real statement of intent from Ardmore, with the powerful left-hander having established himself as one of the most dangerous batters in Leinster cricket.

During three seasons at Balrothery, Safi amassed an impressive 2,014 runs at an average of more than 33, registering 11 half-centuries and five hundreds. His highest score was an unbeaten 149 against Rush, and Ardmore will be hoping he can reproduce that prolific form in the North West.

Chester's return is another significant boost after the experienced all-rounder made an immediate impression during a handful of appearances last season. His aggressive, hard-hitting approach brought a new dimension to Ardmore's batting, and the club are hopeful that increased availability will allow him to make an even greater impact in 2027.

Captain Mark Chambers is understandably delighted with the latest additions.

"We're delighted to have further strengthened the squad," said Chambers. "Suliman is a proven run-scorer in Leinster and he'll add a lot of quality to the dressing room. His experience of captaining Afghanistan Under-19s speaks for itself.

"We have a very inclusive atmosphere at the club and, with a number of Afghanistan-born players already here, hopefully his move will be a seamless transition.

"Adam showcased his undoubted talent in the handful of games he played last season, producing several quality, hard-hitting, aggressive innings. We're hopeful he'll be available for the majority of matches in 2027."

The double boost follows confirmation last week that Sri Lankan professional Kasun Aberaytne will also return after scoring 823 runs in his debut season.

"With the pair now in our ranks, we're well on the way to building a formidable top order, having also confirmed Kasun's return," added Chambers. "Hopefully next season will be a very successful one, both on and off the field."

After a season of frustration, there is renewed optimism at the Bleachgreen that 2027 could be a very different story.