Niall O'Brien was upbeat despite the NW Warriors being unable to seal what would have been a historic first Championship win against Leinster Lightning in Dublin.

Warriors dominated the proceedings over the three days, with O'Brien and Stuart Thompson scoring centuries in a 308-run stand in their total of 509-9 - both competition records.

"We are delighted with how we have started the 2018 campaign," said O'Brien. "To be inserted under gloomy conditions and score over 500 is a great achievement.

"Huge congratulations must go to Thomo (Stuart Thompson) on what we hope will be the catalyst for a big summer ahead for both Ireland and the Warriors.

"A special mention as well to young Aaron Gillespie who again showed his quality in scoring another 50 against Lightning."

The Warriors were denied victory by Andrew Balbirnie's first innings century, with Kevin O'Brien and Jack Tector making crucial half centuries as Lightning clung on for the draw.

"All our bowlers did a great job and tried their hearts out until the very end and we couldn’t have asked for any more than that," added O'Brien.

"It was great having Boyd Rankin and William Porterfield back in the ranks and two strong teams went at it for three days on a very good cricket wicket."

The teams are next in action when the T20 Trophy starts on the 18th of May. The Warriors take on Northern Knights at Carrickfergus, while Lightning travel to the Mardyke to face Munster Reds.