NCU Representative Directorate

The NCU Representative Directorate have announced the Knights Squad for 2016.  The squad contains five Waringstown players, three each from CIYMS, CSNI and Instonians, two from North Down and one from Carrickfergus.

The NCU have decided that this year any player who is registered to play in the NCU can be considered for selection.  Provincial unions have this year also agreed to Cricket Ireland's proposal to allow up to two overseas players play in all three formats of the Inter-Pro competitions.

Kyle McCallan has stood down as a selector and Ryan Eagleson and Robin Haire have come in as selectors.  These two are very respected within the game and Ryan particularly will provide a very useful link to the young players coming through the system.

NCU chairman Andy Clement said:  "I am looking forward to the 2016 season, I still very much see the Knights Squad as one which is full of talent and match winners. I think everyone in the NCU would be in agreement that the team did not perform to its potential in last year's Inter-Pro series, but I am confident that in the coming months the squad will do the NCU proud both on and off the field. It would be excellent to see some of the Knights players performing to such a level throughout the series that Ireland opportunities come calling.

I also would like to thank all our sponsors, especially PwC NI, for their continued sponsorship in 2016 which will greatly assist in the plans for the Knights moving forward".

Eugene Moleon has been reappointed coach of the Northern Knights for the 2016 season, and Gavin Rogers as assistant coach.  Eugene said:   I am looking forward to the 2016 season and continuing working with the players named in the squad.   I think we have selected a group of players who are filled with character and potential.  I am looking forward to the challenges ahead and working with each player, assisting them reach their full potential and bringing home some silverware to the NCU.

With Andrew White's retirement from representative cricket, James Shannon has been appointed captain for the 2016 season.  James said:  "I feel extremely proud and privileged to be taking over the captaincy from Andrew White following his retirement.  I am looking forward to working with the board, management and players to help produce a cricketing environment that reflects the ambitious nature of the NCU.  With hard work and enjoyment I have no doubt that the 2016 season will be a successful one for the Northern Knights."

[Johnny Thompson who is playing for CIYMS has declined to play representative cricket this coming season]