Cast as perennial underdogs, Killyclooney have developed a habit of biting back, and that was further evidenced at the weekend as they recorded a resounding nine-wickets win over Glendermott chasing 218.

Central to the resurgence has been the arrival of South African professional Blayde Capell,, who has hit the ground running. Still in May, the wicket-keeper batsman has already amassed 372 runs at a better than Bradmanesque average of 124. He certainly has taken a liking to the small boundaries in the region, hitting 41 fours and 19 sixes in his five innings to date – 278 runs!

“I’ve settled in really nice here, and the guys in the team have been great helping me around and showing me the sights,” Capell told the Chronicle.

“Killyclooney are going places - I can say that for sure! We are always seen as the underdogs and we love that tag!”

Club captain Timmy Dougherty praised the impact that Blayde has made since his arrival.

"Blayde has been a great addition to our team, he has helped us reach a level we have been lacking in recent seasons. 

"He is pushing us on and off the field to reach a level we are aiming for, we are enjoying it so far and it's been a big factor on recent results. 

"Hopefully we can keep moving foward and reach the targets he has set for us this season. 

"This week is a big week as we are aiming to keep the form rolling, hopefully we can start strong in the t20s, continue our league form and then get our names into the hat for the next round of the National Cup on Sunday. With the current squad and commitment we are confident."

It promises to be a huge few days for the club, with a home Premier match against Strabane on Saturday, followed by a trip to Dublin on Sunday morning to face Civil Service in the National Cup.

“There are huge games coming up this weekend but we are certainly up for it and can’t wait for the challenge,” added Capell, whose 26th birthday is on Saturday – two victories would be the perfect present for him.