Instonians confirm three-year deal for 'popular figure' who has 'number one goal to play for Ireland'
Reigning Premier League champions Instonians have confirmed Shane Dadswell has signed a new three-year deal to become player/coach at the Belfast club – and the South African-born all-rounder admits his “number one goal is to play international cricket for Ireland”.
Having scored 763 runs and picked up 35 wickets across all competitions in 2023, Dadswell returned to Shaw’s Bridge last season and enjoyed another successful campaign, hitting 957 runs at a blistering strike-rate of over 170.
The 27-year-old played a key role for Nikolai Smith’s side as they won a second league crown in three years while also picking up an All-Ireland T20 Cup crown alongside celebrating NCU T20 Cup success.
Instonians also reached the Challenge Cup final, but were beaten by Waringstown in a showpiece decider at Stormont.
Dadswell has played professional cricket in South Africa, racking up over 70 appearances across formats domestically, while he also represented Pretoria Capitals in SA20 and was selected by Pakistan Super League outfit Lahore Qalandars.
His commitment to Ireland will be seen as a major boost and he joins the likes of fellow South African-born stars Curtis Campher, Graham Hume and Ben Calitz in making the switch.
“I am fortunate to have played as long as I did in South Africa,” he told Club Cricket SA. “It was great to be involved in the inaugural SA20 and I think cricket in South Africa is in a strong place.
“I am not stopping playing cricket, but I am pursuing an opportunity in Ireland. This is as much a cricket decision as it is a life decision.
“My number one goal is to play international cricket for Ireland. I love the game of cricket and I believe I still have plenty to offer.
“I wish all those involved in South African cricket well. The trajectory cricket in South Africa is on is really good. I am grateful to have been involved in cricket in SA.”
Dadswell will ply his trade with the Northern Knights in Cricket Ireland’s Inter-Provincial competition and also spend the next three years starring for Instonians while developing the next generation.
"We are delighted to announce Shane Dadswell as our new player coach on a three-year deal,” the club posted on social media. “Shane, already a popular figure around the club, will oversee the development and performance of cricket across all levels, from our youth section through to our senior teams.
“His experience and passion for the game will help shape our cricketing strategy, drive player development, and ensure continued success on and off the field.”