| Waringstown is delighted to announce the signing of fast bowler Matthew FosterThe 25-year-old seamer has joined the club from NCU Premier League rivals Civil Service North.Matthew is a fixture in the Northern Knights squad and has been in Ireland Test match squads without yet making his debut. He is leaving for a winter playing grade cricket in Adelaide, Australia before returning to Northern Ireland in time for next season.Matthew said: “It’s nice for all parties to get everything sorted nice and early, and before I head off to Australia at the end of September. When I come back from Australia I can hit the ground running.“I know a lot of the Waringstown guys from interpros and from playing against them over the last 10 years. I know that I’m going to fit in the group well. From talking to Greg, and Nelly, what they have planned is really exciting and I’m really looking forward to being part of that. There’s also the indoor school coming and the 175th anniversary of the club next year.”Foster thanked Civil Service North for their contribution to his career. He leaves Stormont having played at the east Belfast club since he was nine.“I grew up at the club, I owe them a lot in terms of where I am today. I’ve been playing Premier League cricket there since I was 15-16, I’ve got a lot of close friends there, they’re like family almost. It’s been a very difficult decision and not one that I have taken lightly. They will always have a very special place in my heart for what they have done for me and my family.“But this is the right time for me. Change can freshen things up, and I’m looking forward to challenging for trophies with Waringstown.”Waringstown captain Greg Thompson said: “We are delighted to welcome Matthew to Waringstown CC. Matthew possesses a skill set that has seen him perform regularly within the Knights set-up for a number of years, as well as being included in Test match squads. Having spoken with a number of our guys who have played with him, it was evident that he was the type of character who will thrive at The Lawn.“Going into our 175th year we aimed to add quality and depth to our bowling resources and this signing definitely does both.“I look forward to seeing Matthew progress even further over the winter as he sets off for an Australian winter, but we can look forward to welcoming him back ahead of the season.” |
