Bannsiders sign Ireland international McCarter

Coleraine's new signing Graeme McCarter celebrates taking a wicket for Ireland.

The 22-year old is out of contract having left Gloucester at the end of this season after a total of six years with the County Championship outfit - four of those at the club’s Academy.

The former Killyclooney and Fox Lodge bowler made his ODI debut for Ireland against Scotland in September but hasn’t made the squad announced last week for a tri-series in Dubai - a de facto World Cup squad.

Joining the Bannsiders on a two-year deal could well be a good move for him at this point in his career however as he looks nailed on to be picked up by Bobby Rao for his North West Warriors Squad.

The former Indian Test player has an excellent record for developing his charges and with Andy McBrine, Craig Young and Stuart Thompson all set to board the plane for Australia in February; McCarter will be hoping that the Interprovincial series can be his stepping stone back into the frame.

A spokesman for Coleraine suggested that McCarter’s signing will thrust the club back among the leading contenders for silverware in 2015.

“We are delighted that Graeme has agreed to join us despite a number of offers from elsewhere.

“We would envisage that he will spearhead our attack alongside Gordon Cooke and Jarred Barnes with young Mattie Smyth as another seam option.

“Skipper Scott Campbell as well as Rishi and Varun Chopra and professional Kyllin Vardhan provide the spin options so we feel we are well equipped for a very competitive campaign.

“Our batting looks solid too, led by Niall McDonnell and the players are looking forward to getting back in the nets in the New Year.”

McCarter himself had mixed emotions about leaving Gloucester but was very happy at having secured a deal in the North West, with a side who will challenge for honours.

“I am looking forward to getting back into club cricket once more and meeting up again with lads that I had played with and against before going to Gloucester. I’m also looking forward to joining up with the Warriors next season.

“My main aim now is to do well with Coleraine and also to work hard in the Interprovincial squad and to see where that takes me.”