NEW LOOK LIGHTNING TO FACE WARRIORS (1.5.2021)

Leinster Lightning has announced a new look squad for the opening IP50 fixture with the North West Warriors on Saturday 1st May at Pembroke Cricket Club (behind closed doors).

With some of last year’s squad now departed to other teams in the competition and the unavailability of some senior/experienced Lightning performers, the Lightning management is giving some younger players an opportunity to showcase their talents.

Jamie Grassi, David O’Halloran and James Newland have all been added to the core group for the first matchday squad of the season.

Ireland captain Andrew Balbirnie, Josh Little and Rory Anders are all unavailable for various reasons - Balbirnie has to quarantine on his return from playing for Glamorgan in the UK County Championship, Little is still recovering from an elbow injury whilst Anders misses out due to study commitments.

“This is an opportunity for some of our younger players to get match-day exposure to what the Lightning team is all about. Each of the players selected have been involved in recent training sessions, have shown great commitment and now have the opportunity to show what they can do in a match situation,” says Head Coach Nigel Jones.

“Jamie Grassi has really impressed with his ball-striking in recent training sessions and we’re keen to give him an opportunity. David is another who has impressed in training and he’s got all the attributes to be successful as a wicket-taker whilst James Newland is already very familiar with our systems. We wish them all well.”

In addition to these new faces, both Tim Tector and JJ Garth will be looking to make their debuts in Lightning colours, both very exciting players with huge potential.

Leinster Lightning open their IP50 campaign with this home fixture against the North West Warriors on Saturday 1st May at 10.45am.

Coverage of the game will be brought via the @cricketleinster twitter account and via the livestream production - details on the day.

Leinster Lightning is now sponsored by LHW Financial Planning whose logo will appear on the new playing kit and on advertising boards around the boundary - the support of LHW Financial Planning is hugely appreciated by players, management and fans alike.

Leinster Lightning Squad for 50-Over Cup v North West Warriors

Saturday 1st May

Pembroke CC, 10.45am

• George Dockrell, Captain (Phoenix)
• Lorcan Tucker, Vice-Captain (Pembroke)
• Peter Chase (Malahide)
• JJ Garth (Pembroke)
• Jamie Grassi (Phoenix)
• Barry McCarthy (Pembroke)
• James Newland (Malahide)
• Kevin O’Brien (Railway Union)
• David O’Halloran (Malahide)
• Simi Singh (YMCA)
• Jack Tector (YMCA)
• Tim Tector (YMCA)