Josh Manley targets better showing for Northrn Knights at Twenty20 Festival

The Lisburn seamer enjoyed a successful campaign on loan with Munster Reds in 2021, picking up 23 wickets in 14 matches and is now leading the Knights bowling attack alongside new captain Mark Adair.

Manley has started in a similar vein this season by collecting figures of 4/23 in the last Festival against the Reds and also shone in a 50-over clash versus his former side, finishing with 3/56.

The time spent with the Cork-based outfit helped Manley secure an Ireland A call-up for their tour of Namibia earlier this year and has set a platform from which to springboard.

“It’s one of those ones that without it, you think where would I be right now if that hadn’t happened?” he said.

“Things might have been very different so that gave me a lot of confidence. I was just desperate to get some game time and showcase what I’m capable of.

“I was fortunate to get a chance to do that and now it’s lovely being able to go back and people know what I can do and I can use that experience.

“It has been interesting (being back with the Knights). There has been quite a lot of change since I was there in 2020.

“Mark is now captain and he has been really good with bringing a new dynamic to the side and there’s a real buzz.

“It has been great being part of the group and playing with those guys every week with the Knights is fantastic.”

Although Manley will ultimately be judged by the number of wickets he takes, he also plays an important part in the changing room and is often credited for his positive attitude around camp.

Head Coach Simon Johnston refers to him as ‘Mr Sunshine’ and Manley is all too happy to help in any way he can.

“I’m generally a positive guy so if guys can be lifted up that couple of percent it can help massively with