Derriaghy and Lisburn hoping to finally do battle

The derby '“ part four. I am, of course, referring to Lisburn v Derriaghy.
Derriaghy captain Craig LewisDerriaghy captain Craig Lewis
Derriaghy captain Craig Lewis

Rain ensured the three games attempted at Queensway were all washed out, with no benefit to either side.

Saturday has added significance with both sides recording their second wins of the season in the league at the weekend.

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I spoke with both captains, firstly Derriaghy, but before getting into the game and cognisant of yesterday’s trending topic on Twitter: Craig Lewis for the Northern Knights?

“From my perspective, yes, I would like to be asked, however the three-day game next week, is probably not what I am naturally suited to, but certainly white ball in 50 overs or T20,” Lewis said.

“For some time now others have been referring to me as the best player outside the premier league, this season I have had the chance to play against the best.

“If I am honest I didn’t really know how good I was or wasn’t but I am averaging well over 40 with the bat and have taken 17 wickets, I’m right up there in the statistics charts; so I believe I have proved a point to those who said I could only perform in Section One and if I get a call, I am available.

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“Great win on Sunday, felt we were always in control batting but it did get a bit tight. Indeed, on Saturday it might look like we had a beating but we dropped Rusty Theron second ball which would have left Instonians 19-4.

“The bowling has been fantastic this year, we have Kaushik Aphale back to fitness and the top order stood up to be counted, so really looking forward to the weekend.”

Lisburn’s Adam Berry was equally upbeat, having reached the T20 final, backing it up with the narrowest of victories over North Down at The Green.

“It was great to come out on the right side of that one showing good fight again, “ he said.

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“Cody Chetty made an unbeaten half century, Rick McConkey played his part and Mark (Berry) bowled superbly.

“Saturday becomes a massive game, Derriaghy’s win against Carrick, I think shows that anyone can beat anyone else on their day, even the top two, Waringstown and Instonians.

“Nathan Waller is unavailable and will be replaced by James Magowan, we are all in high spirits looking forward to the game, hopefully we keep the momentum going and Steve Lazars can get back to his early season form with the bat.”

With cup finalists CIYMS and CSNI taking the traditional day off after the final, Carrickfergus will look to bounce back at home to Instonians.

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Waringstown, who benefited from DL on Saturday but suffered their first league defeat on Sunday, will want to prove that was merely a blip, but North Down need a big performance and should be boosted by the return of Peter Shields.

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