The News Letter's Alistair Bushe identifies six young NCU players (in no particular order) who have big years ahead of them in 2010. Following Keith Allen of Waringstown CC, and left-arm slow bowler Jack Blakiston-Houston of Instonians, is another Instonians youngster, this time Ireland U19 star, James Shannon.
The Bushe Verdict: James Shannon, Instonians CC
"Announced himself in 2008 when he made a brilliant half century against North Down in a Challenge Cup semi-final and his performances with the Ireland under-19s in New Zealand mark him down for great things.
A stint with Worcestershire didn't quite work out as he planned last summer, and his appearances in the NCU were few and far between in 2009, but Instonians and Ireland are set to be the beneficiaries in 2010.
An attacking batsman and a ferocious competitor, you could see him in full Ireland colours before long."
Shannon was in brilliant form in the warm up matches for the 2010 World Cup. Four consective half-centuries culminated in a superb 83 from 108 balls against the West Indies U19. Unfortunately Ireland lost narrowly in the end.
Injury restricted Shannon to just 3 appearances in the World Cup itself.
Prior to the World Cup, in November, Shannon was profiled and interviewed by Cover Point - http://www.cover-point.com/post/Ireland-Under-19-Star-James-Shannon-Profile-and-Interview.aspx
Copyright: Cover Point
