Carrickfergus CC captain Michael Gilmour believes that his side can compete for silverware this year.

Speaking ahead of the new season, Gilmour said: "We go into this season with the hopes of competing for trophies.

"We are an ambitious and competitive team who want to win every game we can play in. If we are able to play the cricket we are capable of, then we should continue to build on our performances in previous years."

"It's great to see the league looking so competitive once again so it's really exciting to get out there and get things started."

The shortened 2020 season was a tough one for the Middle Road side as they finished bottom of the table in the Robinson Services Cup and were knocked out in the quarter-finals of the Lagan Valley Steels T20 Cup. 

Of the 2020 season, Gilmour explained: "It was a difficult season for us last year with a combination of unavailability and poor performances.  
"Hopefully this year will see a return to a full season and we will have plenty to play for."

Carrickfergus have recruited well over the winter, landing the signatures of former Ireland international and current MTB Northern Knights bowler Graeme McCarter as well as former Glamorgan batsman Jeremy Lawlor.

Of the new signings, Gilmour said: "I'm happy with the new guys who have joined us this season."

"On top of the talent that we already have, Lawlor and McCarter are two competitive guys who've played at the top level."

Jacques Snyman will also return to Middle Road this season having impressed in 2019. The South Africa international scored 1085 runs at an average of 54.29 and Gilmour said that having him back "just tops it off."

Carrickfergus begin their season by hosting North Down in the Lagan Valley Steels T20 Cup.

Ahead of the opening fixture, Gilmour said: "North Down is always a great game. Both teams are keen to get off to a flyer so it's definitely going to be a good start to the season."