Bannsiders stick with youth policy

Rather than admire themselves in the mirror however Coleraine set about ensuring that things would be different this time. Whilst most clubs counted the cost of the recession, Wilson Torrens’ side decided to invest in their future, both long and short term and there is a quiet confidence in the camp that the club will ruffle a few feathers on their way to a very competitive new season.

Team manager Gavin Craig gave his thoughts on the direction they wanted to take and the Coleraine stalwart was forthright in his views. “To be honest we felt we were very unlucky to be relegated in the first place and having worked ourselves into a winning position in several games we lacked the experience to finish them off. That said we stuck with our policy of developing the younger players at the club and I believe that decision was the correct one.

“Players like Rory Knox, Scott Campbell, Stephen Harper, Paul Douglas and Rishi Chopra all played first division cricket last year and when you consider that their ages ranged from 13 to 19 it gives an indication of what we have been trying to do here.

“The unfortunate circumstances that unfolded at the end of last season at Killymallaght meant that we were given a reprieve and although it was not the circumstances we would have chosen, our club was very heartened by the good wishes that were extended to us by the Killymallaght players.

“We decided that we needed to add some experience to our line up to back up the very obvious talent that is coming through so after careful consideration we approached Stephen Dunn and Ian McGregor. Both players intimated that they were ready for a fresh challenge and we agreed that both would come in as first team players, but that they would also have a defined role in developing the young players as well. Already a Level two coach, Ian will work closely with all the first team squad whilst Stephen will be expected to undertake bowling sessions. Add in the fact that Mohammed Salman is returning as overseas professional, and that he will do so in good time for our opening fixture and I believe we have the nucleus of a side capable of more than avoiding relegation.

“We intend sticking by our principles therefore Ian McGregor will open the batting and his partner at the top of the order will be 16 year old Scott Campbell. Ian’s experience will improve Scott still further but he’s a lad of genuine potential in his own right. Stephen Dunn will open the bowling with Rory Knox and few teams will be able to boast a new ball attack of two top quality left arm seamers. We’re not in the business of making rash predictions but we’re pretty happy with the blend we have now.”

Whilst many eyes will be on Salman, McGregor and Dunn this could well be a big season for young Knox and Campbell. Make no mistake, these are two excellent prospects and with the experience of 2009 behind them, don’t be surprised if it shows now.