Smyth back in the big time

They came within nine runs of being relegated in 2009 and lessons have obviously been well learned despite the fact that they have now lost one of the best all-rounders in the country in Johnny Thompson.

Having experienced problems with their overseas professional for the past few seasons Glendermott have taken no chances this time as their new man flew into Belfast over a week ago. Hanke Von Rauenstein, a right hand batsman who plays in the same South African club side as Strabane’s Jonathan Beukes is also a more than useful slow bowler and skipper Gordon Montgomery was hopeful that he would add real quality to the side.

“We don’t know a lot about Hanke other than his record and the fact that he was coaching Scotland’s under-15’s last season but he has a solid first class pedigree and a level two badge which will be put to good use,” he said.

Whilst the new professional is a welcome addition, however it is the capture of Stephen Smyth that turned most heads.

“Stephen Smyth comes into the side and we all know the sort of quality Stephen offers. He hasn’t played for a while but I would be very surprised if he doesn’t get into the swing of things again very quickly at the Rectory and his was a big signing for us. Craig Averill is joining as well as the club is aware that our batting needed strengthening.

“Craig is a very good player who has the potential to go on to big things and again, I feel that he will be very much at home on what is widely regarded as one of the best batting tracks in the country.

“Gary Neely has also moved back to us and everyone will be aware of how competitive Gary can be. He will certainly help the younger lads when the going gets tough and his experience leading the attack will be invaluable. Two more new faces have joined us for pre-season, brothers David and Ryan Barr and both really seem to be looking forward to playing for the club. The boys have played senior cricket at Killyclooney and although this will be a step up for them I would be confident from what I’ve seen that they can do a job for us. We have one or two more irons in the fire as well but it is very much a matter of wait and see for now.”

He added: “Peter Gibson will partner Gary with the new ball this season and Peter was excellent last year. He came into his own opening the bowling and we are hopeful of a big season from him this time. Rodney Pearson is staying as well and Bob Robinson will have a massive part to play at the top of the order. Maurice Ferguson looks like being available quite regularly this season and is one of the top keepers in the league. That is a real boost for the club whilst myself and Stephen Montgomery will obviously be around and doing everything we can to ensure a better showing than last year.”

Whilst it won’t be easy for them after a year of struggle you have to feel that their new blood, and Smyth in particular, will ensure no repeat of last time.