Top Two Clash in IP50 Cup

The Warriors have made just one change ahead of Tuesday’s key clash with Leinster Lightning at Eglinton as Kyle Magee comes into the squad following Boyd Rankin’s retirement. The Brigade batsman has impressed selectors of late and could well have been on the verge of a recall anyway, and he is the only change as Gary Wilson keeps faith with the squad that has served him well so far.

It’s a huge game in the context of the competition- a Lightning win will once again see them crowned champions whereas a victory for the home side would make the final round of matches very interesting indeed.

Leinster proved a bit too strong as these sides met in the opening game of the season and while Andy McBrine’s men have definitely improved since then, this is another step up. That said, the Warriors batting has started to look quite solid in recent weeks and there is a sense that it could be a more closely-matched affair this time.

William Porterfield and Stephen Doheny look likely to retain their opening partnership while there seems little reason to move skipper McBrine from the Number 3. It’s in the middle where the hosts have found their range this season with Stuart Thompson, Shane Getkate, William McClintock, Graham Kennedy, Graham Hume, Ross Allen, Nathan McGuire and now Kyle Magee all viable options.

The weather is set to be a little kinder on Tuesday and hopefully that turns out to be the case in what could be a thrilling clash. Action gets under way at 10.45 am.

The Warriors squad in full is Andy McBrine, William Porterfield, Stephen Doheny, Ross Allen, Nathan McGuire, Graham Kennedy, William McClintock, Graham Hume, Shane Getkate, Stuart Thompson, Kyle Magee, Craig Young, Conor Olphert.

The North West Warriors are sponsored by Fleming-Agri whose logo will appear on the new playing kit and on advertising boards around the boundary. The support of Fleming-Agri is hugely appreciated by Warriors players, coaches and the NWCU.