Lockhart shines after Millpark skipper’s backing

That’s after the emergence of 14 year-old bowler Harry Lockhart, who starred for the local side during their title-winning run-in.

It was perhaps a surprise aspect to the successful season after the departure of Richard McCann, who got a new job as Head Pastry Chef in Weaver’s Lodge .

“We missed Richard for the treats he used to bring us,” said captain Paul McCart.

“Losing him was a blow but it has had a very positive outcome as it allowed Harry to come into the side.

“We knew it was important to get him in there because, after the seconds folded, we knew he had to play and we didn’t want to lose him.

“I don’t think there are any other 14 year-olds bowling at such a high level throughout the NCU. I think he has a good opportunity at our club but if Lurgan firsts or someone like that said they wanted to bowl him, we wouldn’t stand in his way.

“Maybe some of his friends will see the level he is playing at and the chance he is getting, they might want to join. It’s a good chance to develop.”

Lockhart could certainly end up doing that.

“He played for Lurgan’s youth teams and had NCU trials,” said McCart.

“He moves the ball in the air and he has picked up a lot more pace as well. He’s a very skillful player and is intelligent beyond his years. He knows what he is doing.

“Whenever other people said don’t bowl this year, I bowled him and he didn’t let me down at all. He didn’t bowl badly even once over the course of the season.”

Now he and his Millpark team-mkates can look forward to pitting against the best in Section Two.