Waringstown Cricket Club are delighted to announce that Ross Allen will be returning to the club for the 2025 season.
Ross missed the entirety of Waringstown’s Premier League campaign in 2024 as he was living in Liverpool, but after returning to Northern Ireland, he will be an important addition to Greg Thompson’s squad in 2025.
Ross admits he missed being part of what was a successful 2024 season for Waringstown.
“I missed it massively, especially those big games in the likes of the Irish cup,” he said. “The silver lining to it was that I was able to pull on the whites again and play some red ball cricket while I was over in Liverpool which has helped me develop my game even further, so I can’t wait to get going next season at The Lawn.”
Ross is best known as a left-arm spinner, but he is also capable of batting anywhere in the order. He stressed that he will be happy in whatever role he is used with bat and ball.
“I wouldn’t say I see a specific role for myself for next season, I’ve got more of a ‘side before self’ mentality and to be honest I think that’s why Waringstown has been such a successful club because all the lads have the exact same mentality, we do what’s best for the team and that can vary from game to game,” he said.
“If I get the opportunity up the order I would never say no, we have some real quality up the order especially with Sam (Topping) and Matty (Halliday) coming in last season. One thing I’ve really improved on the past couple of seasons is the ability to adapt to situations so whether it be up against the new ball or towards the end of the innings, I’m always happy to slot in where I’m needed.”
Ross is adamant that competition will be just as fierce in the NCU top flight next summer.
“It’s a top quality league, anyone on their day can beat anyone and it’s shown the past couple of seasons,” he added. “I’ve no doubt we’ve got a squad that can go far in all competitions, so hopefully we’ll be able to get our name on a few more trophies next season.”
Captain Greg Thompson is delighted that Ross will be returning to The Lawn. He said: “It’s great to welcome Ross back to the club. Although he played throughout the 2022 season and some of the 2023 season, Ross was unavailable last season as he was working and living in Liverpool.
“It feels like a new signing but with the added benefit of knowing that he has the quality in all three disciplines plus the character to fit in really well.”