Graham Kennedy has received his birthday present a couple of days early after being drafted into the North West Warriors team to play Leinster Lightning at Malahide this week following the late withdrawal of Ricky-Lee Dougherty (work commitments).

Bready's Andrew Austin will now take the gloves while Kennedy comes in after impressing on the recent North West under-17 tour to Sussex.

Warriors Head Coach Ian McGregor was reluctant to put undue pressure under the youngster who turns 17 on Wednesday, but did hint that the Ballyspallen lad would play in the game.

As for the debutant, he was naturally delighted to get the nod and said he hoped to get the chance to impress.

"I've been really enjoying my cricket this season but this has come as a bit of a surprise. Even so I'm really looking forward to it because like everybody else I want to play at the highest level I can."

"It's a massive jump up in standard for me but I'm looking forward to the experience and will do my very best if I play."