LISBURN
- Captain: Callum Atkinson
- Overseas professional: Faiz Fazal
- Players In: James Hunter, Nigel Jones
- Players out: none
The champions Lisburn haven't rested on their laurels over the close season, strengthening their squad with a number of quality additions, no more so than with the acquisition of Nigel Jones.
Former Indian International, Faiz Fazal returns as overseas professional - his 1006 runs in 2022 was instrumental in their success.
Knights fast bowler, Josh Manley also returns as the Wallace Park club's Irish passport holder, and he and Fazal have been crucial to Lisburn's development with their performances on the field.
"As a club everyone is looking forward to the 2023 season kicking off," skipper Callum Atkinson told CricketEurope.
"The first XI playing squad are focused on backing up our success from last year and sustaining the performances put in on the field.
"With the additions of Nigel Jones and James Hunter we have improved the balance of the squad. During our pre-season block we’ve already seen the impact Jonesy brings to the club with his expertise as a coach and his resume as a player speaks for itself.
"Jonesy alongside our coach, Uel Graham have brought a professionalism which will hopefully stand us in good stead for the season.
"James Hunter is an exciting addition who offers plenty of skill and has been impressive at training since returning from University in Durham.
"As well as the two new additions, it was pleasing to see players from last year step up and put in performances. Mark Berry and Dave Miller both featured in last season’s All Star Team. Our challenge is to sustain and improve those performances.
"Jonny Waite has plenty of talent at the top of the order and he’ll want to back up some impressive knocks from last year.
"Core Lisburn players who have plenty of NCU Premier League experience are the glue to our squad in David Simpson, Adam Berry, and Glenn Halliday.
"Vice-captain, Neil Whitworth is a key all-rounder for us. For me he’s one of the leading spinners in the league. With a year in the NCU under his belt, he will continue to improve our side for this upcoming season.
"Matthew Humphreys has had an incredible winter and the club are proud of him making his Irish debut. If we see him playing for Lisburn this year it will be a bonus as we hope he continues featuring in representative squads.
"With other teams also strengthening during the winter every fixture will be hard fought and we understand the challenges ahead however, we’re in a good place leading into the season and we back the ability and experience within our squad."
Lisburn start the defence of their Premier League title with an away day trip to Instonians on Saturday April 22nd.