Lisburn land big-hitting Dadswell in major transfer coup

Lisburn have pulled off one of the biggest signings of the winter with the capture of prolific South African all-rounder Shane Dadswell from NCU Premiership rivals Instonians.

The 29-year-old, who hopes to qualify for Ireland in 2028, has been one of the most influential players in the NCU during his three seasons at Shaw's Bridge, combining explosive batting with match-winning bowling performances.

His statistics make remarkable reading. Dadswell plundered 2,891 runs at an average of 47.39 and a strike rate exceeding 160, hitting five centuries, 19 half-centuries and an astonishing 228 sixes. He enjoyed his most prolific campaign in 2026, topping the NCU batting charts with 1,171 runs and smashing a record 103 sixes.

Nor has his contribution been confined to the bat.

The powerful all-rounder also claimed 105 wickets at an impressive average of 21.91, including a hat-trick against his new club Lisburn earlier this year!

Dadswell first arrived as Instonians' overseas professional in 2023, making an immediate impact with 763 runs and 36 wickets as they secured the Premiership title. He subsequently became player-coach, captain and Director of Cricket, while continuing to dominate with the bat, topping the Premiership averages in 2025 with a highest score of 183.

His departure is a considerable blow to Instonians and a major statement of intent from their Wallace Park rivals.

"Shane is one of the most respected and prolific cricketers in the NCU," said a delighted Lisburn spokesperson. "He brings quality with bat and ball, plenty of leadership experience and a real passion for developing players, which will be invaluable to our first XI and to our young cricketers coming through the club.

"Shane has made Northern Ireland his home and is working towards Ireland eligibility in 2028, so this is a real statement signing for Lisburn."

Dadswell is equally enthusiastic about his new challenge.

"I'm absolutely delighted to be joining Lisburn Cricket Club and excited to get started on this new chapter," he said. "It's a fantastic club with a great history, and I'm looking forward to meeting everyone, getting involved and contributing both on and off the field. I'm grateful for the opportunity and can't wait to get going. Here's to a successful season ahead!"

Lisburn will be hoping Dadswell can reproduce his extraordinary form in their old gold, green and black colours next summer. And having already experienced his destructive qualities first-hand, including that memorable hat-trick, they will undoubtedly be relieved to have him on their side in 2027.

A Wallace Park side containing Dadswell, Ross Adair and Ben Calitz will certainly give opposition attacks plenty of food for thought...