INSTONIANS

• Captain: Nikolai Smith
• Overseas professional:Shane Dadswell
• Players in: Shane Dadswell
• Players out: James Hunter, James Rose

There is a new captain at the helm for Instonians with Nikolai Smith taking over the reins from Andrew White.

The former Irish international has been a pivotal figure with approaching 7000 runs and 350 wickets for Instonians who he joined in 2004 from North Down.

Their overseas professional is 25 year-old South African all-rounder Shane Dadswell, who once scored 490 in a club game.

James Hunter and James Rose have moved on to pastures new, but the club have always had a strong youth section and will be confident of replacing them in a seamless transition.

"Firstly the whole of instonians would like to thank Andrew for his massive contribution over the last number of years," said incoming captain Nikolai Smith.

"He has done an excellent job during a tricky period for the club and we look forward to having him playing this season.

"As a group we are looking excited to welcome another season and hopefully can continue to move forward as a squad. We have a fairly settled squad with some players moving on but this should allow other players further opportunities. 

"We are looking forward to welcoming Shane Dadswell as our overseas professional. It’s created a great buzz amongst the club having someone who has had such an exciting season, join us for this year. We want to wish him all the best and a big welcome to Shaws Bridge. 

"As per previous seasons we have some very exciting cricketers that will hopefully continue to go from strength to strength."

Instonians begin their season with a home game against league champions Lisburn on Saturday April 22nd.