Instonians all-rounder James Hunter is leaving Shaws Bridge,switching to Premier League Champions Lisburn for the new campaign.

The highly rated 20 year-old has represented Ireland Under 19's and also featured for the Northern Knights at interprovincial level.

Hunter played 80 times for Instonians at senior level, making his debut as a 13 year-old, and made his highest score of 86 not out against Cregagh in 2021, as well as taking 31 wickets.

“As a club we’re delighted to sign James Hunter," said Lisburn captain Callum Atkinson who also led the Wallace Park side to the Irish Cup final last year.

"James is an exciting all-round talent with both bat and ball. He strengthens our batting and offers a new skill to our bowling attack with his left arm seam.

"For being at the start of his career, he joins us with plenty of experience in the Premier League, as well as the benefit he’s gained from his involvement in representative pathways.

"After what was an incredible year for our club in 2022, we’re looking forward to the challenge of sustaining our performances on the field. 

"Adding James Hunter and Nigel Jones to our current group of players, along with the hard work everyone is putting in during our pre-season programme, prepares us as we look forward to the beginning of the 2023 season."

Hunter will have a baptism of fire on his debut as Lisburn start the defence of their title away at Instonians on April 22nd.