Strabane caused the surprise of the first round of the Senior Cup as they beat Bready. They have been boosted by the arrival of professional Nasir Nawaz. Aaron Gillespie reflects and looks ahead to the challenge of Rush in National Cup.

"We knew that Bready were favourites going into the game but I knew we’ve been improving each week and on our day with the players we have we are capable of beating anyone.

"I thought we restricted them quite well at the start but Irosh is a class act and knew he was the key wicket that we needed to get otherwise we could’ve been looking at chasing 240 plus. To get him the over before the drinks break was vital.

"Walking off the pitch needing 203 I knew it still wasn’t going to be an easy task ahead and just said that we needed was one partnership and to bat time as now we’re used to playing 40 overs. It makes you realise having those 10 extra in the cup is a long time to bat so I knew the only way we were to chase the total was just to bat time.

"Ever since the arrival of Nasir the boost he has given the team have been next level. Having someone like him in your team just makes it easier for the rest of the guys to be able to bat around him and help settle into an innings. It was great to be in that partnership along with him but obviously disappointed not to have been there to get over the line only needing 30runs but thankfully Rhys finished the job. 

Strabane now travel to three times National Cup winners Rush, which promises to be a tough proposition.

"We’ve been faced with another tough draw in rush who I believe are one of the favourites to go on and win the competition especially having strengthened with Nathan McGuire from Glendermott again.

"That adds that extra all-rounder option to their side alongside Neil Rock and Jared Barnes who we know what he can do from his time in the NW.

"It’s a great competition to be apart of getting to travel to different parts of Ireland to play and experience different ground and experiences so it’s one we are much looking forward to. We are hoping to put together another good performance and aiming to come back to the NW with another team in the hat for the next round."