Nigel Jones has confirmed his departure from CIYMS just three days after leading the East Belfast cricket club to a historic first Irish Cup final triumph.
The former Ireland all-rounder announced on Facebook that he is leaving CI after eight trophy-laden seasons.
It is believed that the 40-year-old is joining newly crowned Premier League champions Lisburn, who CIYMS thumped by 225 runs in Saturday's final at Bready.
Read next: CIYMS and Lisburn aiming for first Irish Cup final triumph
He said on Facebook, accompanying a photograph of the victorious CI team with the trophy: “So much love for this photo and to all who’ve supported, trusted and believed in me over the years at CIYMS CC!!
“It’s been an absolute honour and privilege to represent CI and to captain/manage such a great group of lads (past and present)… what a journey it has been, so many great moments, memories and friendships I will take with me into the next chapter!
“Simply thank you, a dream realised for many, this one is for you all at CIYMS CC”
New Zealand-born Jones, who told the players about his impending departure during an emotional post-match speech in the dressing room on Saturday, moved to CI in 2015 after leaving their local rivals CSNI and quickly provided the leadership that the Belmont club craved.
Under his leadership, CI have won the NCU Premier League twice, and the Challenge Cup a remarkable four times.
The Irish Cup was the one he really wanted though and the outcome of Saturday’s final was never in doubt after Lisburn won the toss and inserted CI.
Chris Dougherty and John Matchett made 93 and 94 respectively and Jason van der Merwe later smashed 49 from just 23 balls as CI piled up a remarkable 321 for six in their 50 overs.
Lisburn’s hopes were effectively over after Jones dismissed professional Faiz Fazal for 30 on his way to claiming impressive figures of 3-30.
With Lisburn dismissed for just 96 in 26.2 overs, CIYMS were victors in quick time. Jones’s next task will be to continue the Wallace Park club’s revival in 2023.
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