I want to win big tournaments and trophies says Ross Adair

The 28-year-old was one of the more high-profile transfers during the off-season after he swapped CSNI for reigning Gallagher Challenge Cup champions CIYMS.

He has developed a reputation for being one of the most destructive batters in the top-flight, scoring 873 runs last season, and that has been further established at his new base, hitting 176 runs – including a rapid 96 last weekend against North Down – at a strike-rate of almost 130.

Adair always knew a stint at the Belfast club – where he has linked up with younger brother Mark - would happen at some point and he’s determined to add to their success.

“My dad had played rugby and cricket at CI, Mark is obviously there and it’s somewhere I could see myself being down the line anyway,” he said.

“I want to win big tournaments and trophies. Not that I’m old, but I’m 28 now and I would like to get some silverware under my belt.

“CI have a very competitive squad and I’m a very competitive guy. That can only be a good thing for the season and hopefully we can go all the way in a lot of the competitions.

“You don’t want to think too far ahead and it comes back to the old cliché of one game at a time. We just need to stay competing and hungry in every game and hopefully the big games will take care of themselves if we get there.”

Adair has formed a dynamic opening partnership with John Matchett, who although not quite as aggressive, doesn’t like to stand still for too long either.

They put on 83 to set up victory against Waringstown while in Matchett’s absence last weekend, Chris Dougherty was promoted back to the top of the order and shared a partnership of 129 with Adair.

With the likes of Mark Adair, Jason van der Merwe, Graham Kennedy, captain Nigel Jones and overseas