NWCU News 2019

Hunter set for NW return? Hunter set for NW return? ( )

Ryan Hunter could be set for a return to his native North West, with the CIYMS batsman believed to be heading back next season.

Thompson on the move Thompson on the move ( )

Irish international Stuart Thompson has informed Eglinton he is leaving, and is believed to be on his way to the NCU.

NW Review (6) Coleraine NW Review (6) Coleraine ( )

It wasn't the greatest of seasons for the Bannsiders, but they did come with a late surge to maintain their Premiership survival.

NW Review (5) Glendermott NW Review (5) Glendermott ( )

It was a return to the top flight for the Rectory club, and they managed to retain their Premier status, albeit in dramatic circumstances, and had the bonus of a senior cup final appearance.

Legends honoured at NW dinner Legends honoured at NW dinner ( )

TWO of the North West’s longest serving – and still active – players were inducted into the union’s Hall of Fame last night.

NW name U17 squad NW name U17 squad ( )

The NW have named a winter training squad of 20 to prepare for the 2020 youth interprovincial season.

Six Bready players in NW U15 squad Six Bready players in NW U15 squad ( )

The North West have named their Under 15 winter training squad, and Bready is well represented having six players in the panel of 19.

NW Review (4) Donemana NW Review (4) Donemana ( )

It wasn't a season to remember for The Holm club given the high trophy standards they have set themselves in recent years.

NW Review 3: Bready NW Review 3: Bready ( )

It was always going to be difficult for the defending champions to replicate their historic first title, but they will be satisfied with a third place finish in the Premier league.

Donemana sign South African all-rounder Donemana sign South African all-rounder ( )

The Tyrone club have moved swiftly to put a disappointing 2019 campaign behind them with the capture of South African Ferisco Adams.

NW Review (2) Eglinton NW Review (2) Eglinton ( )

It was very much a case of making the most of their opportunities for Eglinton in 2019 who despite injury and availability problems managed to finish in second position in the league.

NW Review (1) Brigade NW Review (1) Brigade ( )

There's only one place to start our reviews of the NW campaign and that's at Beechgrove where Brigade won three trophies including the big two of NW league and senior cup.

Oraine Williams signs for Glendermott Oraine Williams signs for Glendermott ( )

Glendermott's overseas player for the 2020 season is to be Oraine Williams.

Black appeals to NW cricketing fraternity Black appeals to NW cricketing fraternity ( )

The North West Umpires and Scorers recently highlighted a critical shortage of officials within the region, and former Chair of the Association, Roly Black, has appealed to the local cricket community to come forward to help out.

NW opt for 9-team league NW opt for 9-team league ( )

The NW have opted to have a 9-team Premier League structure for the 2020 season.

Could a 15-team league structure work? Could a 15-team league structure work? ( )

Following the Ballyspallen debacle, the NW are in the process of reviewing the league structure for 2020.

NW structure up in the air NW structure up in the air ( )

The structure of next season’s North West Premiership is up in the air after Ballyspallen won an appeal against the abandonment of their final game of the season and the awarding of the match to Glendermott.

Ballyspallen appeal upheld Ballyspallen appeal upheld ( )

Ballyspallen have won their appeal against the decision to award their final Premier league game of the season to Glendermott.

Ross Allen returning to Australia Ross Allen returning to Australia ( )

Brigade and NW Warriors all-rounder Ross Allen is returning to play club cricket in Australia during the close season.

Foxies off to Australia Foxies off to Australia ( )

Three young Fox Lodge players will be spending the close season in Australia.

Aaron Gillespie off Down Under Aaron Gillespie off Down Under ( )

Strabane all-rounder Aaron Gillespie is off Down Under to spend the winter playing club cricket once again.

Gillespie and Peiris ensure Strabane Premiership status Gillespie and Peiris ensure Strabane Premiership status ( )

A half century from Peter Gillespie and a five-wicket haul for Chathura Peiris ensured Strabane maintained their Premiership status with a 93-run win over Burndennett in the play-off at Bready.

Senior swansong for Strabane legend Senior swansong for Strabane legend ( )

And as well as Peiris, another man the Red Caps will be pinning their hopes on this Saturday is Peter Gillespie. Unlike the team professional however, the former Irish International insists this will be his last senior game for Strabane.

Gillespie brings down curtain on illustrious career Gillespie brings down curtain on illustrious career ( )

PETER Gillespie brings down the curtain on an illustrious career tomorrow when the Ireland international plays his final game for Strabane.

Midweek Cup final to be held at Burndennett Midweek Cup final to be held at Burndennett ( )

The curtain will fall on the 2019 season when the Derry Midweek Final takes place at Burndennett on Sunday.

Bready to host play-off Bready to host play-off ( )

Bready will host the NW promotion/relegation play-off this Saturday, September 14th.

Strabane grab Premiership lifeline Strabane grab Premiership lifeline ( )

STRABANE have a second chance to preserve their top flight status after beating champions Brigade in their final match yesterday by 68 runs.

Bready win U15 cup Bready win U15 cup ( )

Bready beat St Johnston by seven wickets in the NW Under 15 cup final at Eglinton on Sunday.

Ballyspallen relegated in bizarre twist Ballyspallen relegated in bizarre twist ( )

After a fairly low-key summer by North West standards the Premier Division relegation scrap came to a bizarre end on Sunday following an afternoon of twists and turns.

Coleraine ensure Premiership survival Coleraine ensure Premiership survival ( )

Only two games went ahead on the final Saturday of the domestic cricket season, and there was a distinct end-of-summer feel to both.

Take two for Strabane Take two for Strabane ( )

The rain totally wiped out the entire NW programme last Saturday which means Strabane's fate has been put back to this weekend, when they take on the champions Brigade at Strabane Park.

Burndennett dare to dream of Premiership Burndennett dare to dream of Premiership ( )

The very least that Burndennett will have is a play-off match against the 7th placed Premiership side as they attempt to secure promotion to the top flight for the first time in their history. It should be an enthralling few weeks as the season draws to a close.

Crucial weekend in NW looms Crucial weekend in NW looms ( )

THE automatic relegation spot in the NW Premiership will not be decided until Sunday after the North West confirmed the rearrangement dates for last Saturday’s games, all wiped out by the rain.

North West rearrangement details announced North West rearrangement details announced ( )

Following the wash out last weekend the NW Fixtures Secretary has announced details of the schedule of rearrangements.

All to play for in NW relegation dogfight All to play for in NW relegation dogfight ( )

In the NW Premiership, with Brigade’s first title in eight years already confirmed, focus turns to the battle for the drop with any two of four teams still in danger of falling into the Championship.

Strabane staring into the abyss Strabane staring into the abyss ( )

Strabane go into their final scheduled league game of the season bottom of the league and needing a win if they are to avoid relegation.

Relegation D-Day in NW Premiership Relegation D-Day in NW Premiership ( )

This game itself may not mean an awful lot to the new champions, however that is certainly not the case for the home side who made something of a mess of chasing down 70 runs at Ballyspallen on Sunday and now find themselves bottom of the table with just this game to go.

Up for the cup Up for the cup ( )

Ian Callender rounds up a busy few days of cup finals across the NW Region.

Bonds Glen beat St Johnston to clinch U11 Cup Bonds Glen beat St Johnston to clinch U11 Cup ( )

Bonds Glen are the NW U11 champions after they beat St Johnston in front of a large crowd at The Rectory.

Premiership title settled but real dogfight at the bottom Premiership title settled but real dogfight at the bottom ( )

After beating the champions-elect by an astonishing 115 runs on Saturday, Eglinton, the only remaining challengers, crashed to a seven wickets defeat to basement side Glendermott to hand the Beechgrove side the first title since 2011.

Torrens delight as Brigade seal Premier title Torrens delight as Brigade seal Premier title ( )

Roy Torrens is no stranger to sporting highlights after over 50 years at the forefront of cricket and football - on and off the field.

Brigade champions as Eglinton lose Brigade champions as Eglinton lose ( )

Brigade were crowned this season's Premier Division champions on Sunday after Eglinton were well beaten by relegation-threatened Glendermott.

Two down two to go for Ardmore Two down two to go for Ardmore ( )

Ardmore added the Sammy Jeffrey cup to their Eric Cooke Cup win and now can make it four trophies in the coming weeks.

Eglinton spoil Brigade party Eglinton spoil Brigade party ( )

Brigade's title champagne remains on ice with two matches left to go in the regular season after the league leaders were hammered on their own patch by second-placed Eglinton on Saturday afternoon.

Fox Lodge win Ladies Cup Fox Lodge win Ladies Cup ( )

Fox Lodge have retained the Ladies Cup with an emphatic 8-wicket win against Killyclooney in front of a large crowd at Burndennett.

Donemana go in search of further glory Donemana go in search of further glory ( )

Andrew Riddles's team will have been delighted to find some reward for their summer's work, and this victory also ensured that Brigade would not be able to complete the clean sweep of domestic trophies as many expected.

Brigade champions in waiting Brigade champions in waiting ( )

It's a busy weekend for NW clubs as the season draws to a close as the recent weather has caused something of a log-jam for the successful clubs. One issue which should be rubber-stamped is the destiny of the Premier League title with champions elect Brigade hosting second placed Eglinton.

St Johnston beat Strabane to claim Q2 cup St Johnston beat Strabane to claim Q2 cup ( )

St Johnston claimed the Q2 Cup after an emphatic 156-run win against Strabane at The Rectory.

Double success for Ardmore Double success for Ardmore ( )

The North West weather washed out both Ardmore’s cup matches at the weekend, but they still reached one final and won the Eric Cooke Cup yesterday in bowl-outs.

Rule change needed in NW? Rule change needed in NW? ( )

The North West must take a long, hard look at the rules for their midweek action. There is no chance of completing a 20 overs match, starting at 6.30 in August and as a result, Brigade could face only half of their allocation when they batted second – in the gloom.

Bready win Q1 Cup final Bready win Q1 Cup final ( )

Bready Intermediates clinched the Qualifying One cup with a relatively comfortable 74-run win against Eglinton at Beechgrove.

Ardmore win two bowl-outs Ardmore win two bowl-outs ( )

Ardmore beat Burndennett and Fox Lodge in bowl-outs to reach the final of the Sammy Jeffrey and also lift the Eric Cooke T20 Cup.

Super over first for NW U13 final Super over first for NW U13 final ( )

Even a super over couldn't separate the Coleraine and St Johnston U13 sides after a dramatic final at Ballyspallen.

Donemana win Faughan Valley Cup Donemana win Faughan Valley Cup ( )

DONEMANA will meet CIYMS in the semi-final of the All-Ireland T20s on Sunday week after they won the North West final at Strabane Park in the dark last night.

Donemana beat Brigade in Faughan Valley final Donemana beat Brigade in Faughan Valley final ( )

William McClintock's blistering half century destroyed Brigade's hopes of a clean sweep as Donemana won a rain-affected final by 34 runs (DLS).

Tyrone teams to the fore in Qualifying finals Tyrone teams to the fore in Qualifying finals ( )

This weekend sees the Qualifying One and Two competitions down for decision, with Bready taking on Eglinton in the Q1 decider at Beechgrove tomorrow and Saturday, while Strabane face St Johnston in the Q2 decider at Glendermott.

North West T20s rearranged North West T20s rearranged ( )

With the weather having put paid to last weekend's T20 finals day, the NWCU have announced details of the new dates for those games. As expected, the fixtures have been split, but will both still be played at Strabane Park

McBrine targeting silverware for Donemana McBrine targeting silverware for Donemana ( )

NORTH West Warriors skipper Andy McBrine may have enjoyed a ‘rest’ when the final day of the Interprovincial Championship game against Leinster Lightning was washed out, but it is his only day off this week.

NW T20 finals washed out NW T20 finals washed out ( )

Both Sunday's scheduled T20 finals games in the NW fell victim to the poor weekend weather.

Coleraine get lifeline while Ardmore leapfrog Burndennett Coleraine get lifeline while Ardmore leapfrog Burndennett ( )

Postponements were the order of the day in the leagues on Saturday with only a couple of games completed following heavy overnight rain.

Death of Oliver Thompson Death of Oliver Thompson ( )

Former Eglinton and NW all-rounder Oliver Thompson has died following a short illness.

Britton eyeing further glory Britton eyeing further glory ( )

SEVEN days after lifting the North West Senior Cup, Brigade skipper Andy Britton will experience an even more satisfying feeling tomorrow evening if the Premiership leaders beat Donemana.

St Johnston reach Midweek Cup final St Johnston reach Midweek Cup final ( )

Deepak Reddy thumped an unbeaten 94 from just 39 balls as St Johnston beat Glendermott by 9 wickets to reach the Midweek Cup final.

Brigade go in search of more trophies Brigade go in search of more trophies ( )

Brigade have two trophies already secured in the cabinet at Beechgrove and there could be two more winging their way out the Limavady Road this weekend.

Tyrone round-up Tyrone round-up ( )

One more league win starting from this Saturday would see the title trophy also arrive at Beechgrove and then on Sunday, Strabane Park is the setting for the regional T20 finals day which also involves the cup winners.

Eglinton beat Bready to go second Eglinton beat Bready to go second ( )

Eglinton took full advantage of a weakened Bready side to record their seventh straight league win to go clear in second place behind champions elect Brigade.

Britton defends follow-on decision Britton defends follow-on decision ( )

The cup final turned into a non-event following Andy Britton’s decision not to enforce the follow-on, but no-one in the Brigade camp cared a jot when the skipper lifted the trophy for the second year in a row.

Brigade hammer Glendermott to lift senior cup Brigade hammer Glendermott to lift senior cup ( )

Brigade duly retained the North West senior cup on Saturday afternoon after an emphatic 226-run win over Glendermott at Eglinton.

Brigade too strong for Glendermott Brigade too strong for Glendermott ( )

BRIGADE captain Andy Britton lifted the North West Senior Cup for the second year in a row but it was a turgid, one-sided final which did nothing for the two-day showpiece.

Brigade dominate Glendermott on first day Brigade dominate Glendermott on first day ( )

Brigade totally outplayed Glendermott on the first day of the NW Senior Cup final at Eglinton and go into Saturday leading by 260 runs with 8 wickets and 31 overs left in their second innings.

Brigade and Glendermott seek Holy Grail Brigade and Glendermott seek Holy Grail ( )

THE Senior Cup final remains the holy grail for teams in the North West. As Andy Britton puts it, “the best team wins the league, but everyone wants to win the cup”.

Brigade and Glendermott to meet in cup showdown Brigade and Glendermott to meet in cup showdown ( )

The North West Senior Cup final takes place at Eglinton this weekend when Brigade and Glendermott will lock horns in the Blue Riband competition's first ever 'Waterside derby' decider.

Tyrone round-up Tyrone round-up ( )

It hasn’t been the best of seasons for Strabane but things have improved in recent weeks with back-to-back wins against fellow relegation strugglers Glendermott and Coleraine, which has seen them move off the foot of the table and given them a real chance of survival.

Underdogs Glendermott facing massive challenge Underdogs Glendermott facing massive challenge ( )

GLENDERMOTT captain Gordon Montgomery admits his side will be “massive underdogs” going into this year’s North West Senior Cup final against Brigade at Eglinton.

Burndennett dominate with crucial win over Fox Lodge Burndennett dominate with crucial win over Fox Lodge ( )

Burndennett went six points clear at the top of the ladies’ league after securing a fantastic 9 wicket victory over Fox Lodge this past Monday night in Strabane Park.

Brigade win again to inch closer to title Brigade win again to inch closer to title ( )

Brigade won for the 11th straight time in the Premiership but will have to wait a little while longer to lift the trophy as both Bready and Eglinton won thrillers by one and two runs respectively. They meet each other in their rearranged fixture next Sunday after the Senior Cup final.

Barr back in command Barr back in command ( )

Tommy Barr has spent a large part of the last five years as captain of Strabane Cricket Club and the spin bowler has the armband back again at the Park ahead of a nervy last few weeks of the regular season.

Brigade on the cusp of the title Brigade on the cusp of the title ( )

It has been a case of when rather than if Brigade secure the Premiership title, and if results go their way then the Beechgrove side could well have the league trophy in the cabinet this weekend ahead of the senior cup final.

McClintock and Riddles lead Donemana to victory McClintock and Riddles lead Donemana to victory ( )

Donemana look set to join Brigade in the Faughan Valley T20 finals day after a comprehensive 9-wicket win at Eglinton

Fox Lodge and Killyclooney reach Ladies Cup final Fox Lodge and Killyclooney reach Ladies Cup final ( )

Fox Lodge beat Burndennett by 24 runs, while Newbuidings failed yet again to field a side giving Killyclooney a bye into the final.

Brigade on course for title Brigade on course for title ( )

The Premier Division trophy has been destined for the Beechgrove cabinet for several weeks now and its arrival is all the more imminent after another profitable Saturday for the champions-elect.

Donemana form a real riddle for Andrew Donemana form a real riddle for Andrew ( )

It has been a difficult season for Donemana so far in 2019- knocked out of the senior cup by Brigade at the quarter-final stage and now some way behind the Beechgrove outfit in the title race as well, with matches running out.

Brigade juggernaut rolls on Brigade juggernaut rolls on ( )

There seems no stopping the Brigade juggernaut, and it now appears a matter of not if but when they will be crowned Premier league champions. The Beechgrove side are unbeaten and it would be a major surprise if they weren’t to record their 10th straight league win when they take on Coleraine.

NW Ladies Cup round-up NW Ladies Cup round-up ( )

It was all about the first round of the North-West Ladies Cup this past Monday night as Fox Lodge, Burndennett and Killyclooney progressed into the Semi Finals.

Brigade stay top as they rout Glendermott Brigade stay top as they rout Glendermott ( )

Brigade remain top of the Premier Division table after a thumping 10-wicket win over senior cup final opponents Glendermott at Beechgrove on Saturday.

Tyrone players to the fore in NW U17 girls squad Tyrone players to the fore in NW U17 girls squad ( )

There are no fewer than seven Tyrone based players in the NW Under-17 girls squad that will take on their NCU counterparts at Bready on Sunday.

Huge weekend in store in the NW Huge weekend in store in the NW ( )

There's a huge weekend of cricket coming up in the North West and it gets under way on Friday as Ireland take on Zimbabwe in the first of two T20 Internationals at Bready (4pm) with the second match to follow on Sunday.

Death of John Watson Death of John Watson ( )

The North West Cricket fraternity is mourning the loss today of former, player, umpire and youth Coach John Watson who has passed away after a lengthy illness.

Brigade stay on course for the treble Brigade stay on course for the treble ( )

BRIGADE are back in the North West Senior Cup final and next month they will play Glendermott in the popular two-day showdown at Eglinton.

Brigade and Glendermott reach Senior Cup final Brigade and Glendermott reach Senior Cup final ( )

There's just an old tin fence between this season's North West Senior Cup finalists after Glendermott and Brigade booked their places at Eglinton following Sunday's semi-finals.

Brigade widen gap at top of Premiership Brigade widen gap at top of Premiership ( )

We may be only just into the first week of July, however it already appears as though this season's Premier Division title has been decided following Brigade's huge win at Magheramason.

T20 Championship round-up T20 Championship round-up ( )

Friday night saw Andre Henry in the runs again as Killyclooney beat St Johnston in a thriller, Ardmore won a low scoring encounter against Fox Lodge, while Newbuildings beat Bonds Glen.

Rankin relishing Bready being in the spotlight Rankin relishing Bready being in the spotlight ( )

It’s been a huge week for Bready who hosted their first ODI on Monday, and have two further matches next week when as Ireland take on Zimbabwe in T20I’s. David Rankin has been at the club all his life coming through the ranks, and he outlined just how important the games were to the Magheramason side.

Burndennett in pole position for Premiership push Burndennett in pole position for Premiership push ( )

It's been a great start to the season for Burndennett all-rounder Salman Ahmed. The 30 year-old Indian all-rounder has been a revelation for the club, transforming them from a struggling outfit into the league leaders at the half-way stage of the campaign.

Action packed weekend in store in NW Action packed weekend in store in NW ( )

It's another action packed weekend for followers of North West cricket, with a full programme of matches in the Premier Division on Saturday followed by the two semi-finals of the senior cup on Sunday.

Brigade move closer to T20 finals day Brigade move closer to T20 finals day ( )

Gareth McKeegan hits 60 as Brigade trounce Eglinton by 9 wickets to reinforce their spot at the top of the T20 table.

NW teams to the fore in Ulster Plate NW teams to the fore in Ulster Plate ( )

Eglinton, Fox Lodge and Bonds Glen are through to the semi-finals of the Ulster Plate, with holders Donemana having a chance this weekend to make it also as they travel to CIYMS.

Strabane Women hold nerve to beat Fox Lodge women Strabane Women hold nerve to beat Fox Lodge women ( )

Strabane Saints went second in the ladies’ league table after a fantastic 6 wicket victory over Fox Lodge this past Monday night in Strabane Park.

Demolition at Donemana Demolition at Donemana ( )

Brigade make it seven out of seven as Bready stake their claim with a demolition of Donemana.

Strabane in trouble after Ballyspallen loss Strabane in trouble after Ballyspallen loss ( )

Despite their efforts at Beechgrove on Saturday, Strabane have found themselves adrift at the foot of the Premier League table following defeat at home to Ballyspallen on Sunday.

Brigade survive scare while Bready end Donemana title hopes Brigade survive scare while Bready end Donemana title hopes ( )

The Premiership race is almost certainly now a two-horse affair after Saturday's twists and turns ended with Brigade and Bready clear of the pack.

Rankin powers Bready to win Rankin powers Bready to win ( )

David Rankin hit 112 as Bready made the highest score in a T20 game in the NW as they scored 288 for 3 at Glendermott to keep their hopes of reaching the finals days very much alive.

Burndennett set the pace in Championship Burndennett set the pace in Championship ( )

Most observers felt that Ardmore and Fox Lodge would have the promotion race to themselves, however as the teams head into the half-way stage it is Burndennett who sit proudly on top of the pile.

Dazzler Dalzell shines for Bready Dazzler Dalzell shines for Bready ( )

It was quite a weekend for Bready teenager Alana Dalzell whose excellent season continued with a series of eye-catching displays for the Magheramason side.

Premiership reaches half-way stage Premiership reaches half-way stage ( )

The North West senior cup semi-final draw has thrown up a couple of intriguing semi-final ties this week- none more so than at the Rectory where Glendermott will entertain Ballyspallen at the start of next month.

Bready Women beat Fox Lodge in last ball thriller Bready Women beat Fox Lodge in last ball thriller ( )

The only game to go ahead this week in the North West Ladies League was at Ballymagorry where we saw Bready defeat local counterparts, Fox Lodge in a last-ball thriller.

NW Senior Cup semi-final draw made NW Senior Cup semi-final draw made ( )

Ardmore will play Brigade, while Glendermott will take on Ballyspallen in the semi-finals of the Senior Cup.

Comprehensive wins for Ardmore and Ballyspallen Comprehensive wins for Ardmore and Ballyspallen ( )

BALLYSPALLEN and Ardmore completed the line-up for today’s North West Senior Cup semi-final draw with comprehensive victories in yesterday’s delayed last eight games.

SuperMac leads the T20 Fastest 50 charge SuperMac leads the T20 Fastest 50 charge ( )

WILLIAM McClintock hit a stunning 11-ball half-century in Donemana’s T20 win over Strabane at The Holm to put him into the lead for the North West’s Fastest 50.

Ballyspallen and Ardmore reach cup semi-finals Ballyspallen and Ardmore reach cup semi-finals ( )

We now know the line-up for this year's senior cup semi-finals after Ballyspallen and Ardmore joined Brigade and Glendermott in the hat for Monday's draw.

Saturday round-up Saturday round-up ( )

Saturday saw more T20 in the top flight as both Coleraine and Ballyspallen hosted double-headers.

T20 high on the agenda T20 high on the agenda ( )

It's all about T20 cricket this coming weekend with the start of the Interprovincial series taking centre stage in Dublin over the next few days.

Tyrone round-up Tyrone round-up ( )

It wasn’t a Super Sunday for Tyrone sides involved in the Irish Senior and NW Senior Cups with Bready, Strabane, and Donemana all bowing out of the respective competitions.

Fox Lodge win again in Ladies League Fox Lodge win again in Ladies League ( )

Fox Lodge picked up the vital points they needed to secure second place in the North West Ladies League as they narrowly defeated local rivals Killyclooney.

Friday night T20 round-up Friday night T20 round-up ( )

Ricky-Lee Dougherty clubbed 99 and William McClintock hit an 11-ball 50 as Donemana destroyed Strabane, while Andy Britton helped Brigade to victory in the Waterside derby.

Fox Lodge beat Eglinton in Women's League Fox Lodge beat Eglinton in Women's League ( )

Only one game went ahead as planned this past Monday night as Fox Lodge took center stage with a solid 9 wicket victory over hosts Eglinton.

Donemana knocked out of cup by Brigade Donemana knocked out of cup by Brigade ( )

Centuries by David Barr and Kyle Magee see holders Brigade through on DLS, Bready and Strabane lose in Irish Cup, while Fox Lodge and Ardmore progress in National Cup.

Brigade, Bready, Donemana and Glendermott win Brigade, Bready, Donemana and Glendermott win ( )

A busy weekend of league and cup cricket got under way across the North West on Saturday and although there was plenty of rain around throughout the day, all games did manage to play through to a conclusion.

Ballyspallen, Donemana and Eglinton win in T20 Ballyspallen, Donemana and Eglinton win in T20 ( )

Brendon Louw and Stuart Thompson scored unbeaten half centuries in wins for Ballyspallen and Eglinton, while Bilal Iqbal made 88 as Donemana beat Glendermott on DLS.

Action on three fronts in NW Action on three fronts in NW ( )

The weather has played havoc with the recent domestic cricket schedule, meaning yet another busy weekend ahead for many of the local clubs.

Strabane and Bready fly flag for NW in Irish Senior Cup Strabane and Bready fly flag for NW in Irish Senior Cup ( )

Only two North-West teams remain in the last 16 of the Irish Senior Cup, with Strabane and Bready facing tough ties this Sunday. The competition has been a barren wasteland for the region in recent years, with Limavady the last winners back in 2004.

Joy of six for Milligan Joy of six for Milligan ( )

Jason Milligan takes six wickets for nine runs as Fox Lodge beat Killyclooney by 142 runs in their rearranged Championship match.

Killyclooney pick up their first win of the season Killyclooney pick up their first win of the season ( )

With perfect conditions on a sunny Monday evening only one ladies game managed to go ahead as we saw Killyclooney pick up their first win of the season against Eglinton.

Allen century puts Fox Lodge on top against Killyclooney Allen century puts Fox Lodge on top against Killyclooney ( )

Brian Allen hits 119 as Fox Lodge take control of their Championship clash with Killyclooney.

Glendermott march through to semi-finals Glendermott march through to semi-finals ( )

GLENDERMOTT are the only team through to the semi-finals of the North West Senior Cup after rain wiped out the other three games, including the big one at Donemana.

Weather hits NW quarter-finals Weather hits NW quarter-finals ( )

Heavy rain put paid to three of the four North West Senior Cup quarter-finals on Sunday leaving the region's Fixture Secretary with a backlog to contemplate over the next couple of weeks.

Brigade beat Donemana to stay top Brigade beat Donemana to stay top ( )

Brigade have strengthened their position at the top of the Premiership table with an emphatic win against nearest challengers Donemana at Beechgrove.

T20 wins for St Johnston, Fox Lodge and Killyclooney T20 wins for St Johnston, Fox Lodge and Killyclooney ( )

The latest round of Eric Cooke T20 matches saw Fox Lodge edge out Newbuildings in a thriller, St Johnston were too strong for Bonds Glen, while Killyclooney defeated Burndennett.

Tyrone round-up Tyrone round-up ( )

A look back and ahead of the latest events involving the Tyrone sides.

Busy weekend ahead in NW Busy weekend ahead in NW ( )

There's a double-header weekend looming for most of the Premier Division side's with Saturday's league action followed by the quarter-finals of this year's North West Senior Cup the following day.

Eglinton and Strabane Saints win Eglinton and Strabane Saints win ( )

Eglinton were the surprise winners this past Monday evening as they defeated favorites Bready by 10 runs in the North West Women's League.

Burndennett and Ardmore set the pace Burndennett and Ardmore set the pace ( )

Burndennett are the early pacesetters in the Championship, making it four wins on the bounce, closely followed by Ardmore after both teams won their rearranged games on Sunday.

Brigade beat Coleraine to go top of Premiership Brigade beat Coleraine to go top of Premiership ( )

With the points safely in the bag from Saturday's wim at home to Balltspallen, Brigade then travelled to Coleraine on Sunday and posted another decisive victory in their search for the title.

Fox Lodge, Killyclooney and Burndennett all win Fox Lodge, Killyclooney and Burndennett all win ( )

There were wins on Saturday in the Championship for Fox Lodge, Killyclooney and Burndennett.

NW Women's League continues NW Women's League continues ( )

With last week’s fixtures all being washed out, this coming Monday night sees a return to action in the North West Women’s League.

Brigade win again as Donemana lose Brigade win again as Donemana lose ( )

Brigade took advantage of an unexpected slip-up by Donemana on Saturday afternoon which means that after the first month of action in the Premier league, the Beechgrove side are now protecting the Premier Division's only unbeaten record.

Busy weekend ahead in NW Busy weekend ahead in NW ( )

Saturday night's Champions League final in Madrid has already had a bearing on the fixtures in this weekend's Premier Division. The regular 1pm start times have been abandoned in favour of earlier slots with the game between Coleraine and Strabane now scheduled to start as early as 10:30 a.m.

Ahmed fires as Burndennett start season with a bang Ahmed fires as Burndennett start season with a bang ( )

Burndennett have certainly hit the ground running this summer, Eddie McGettigan's sides only defeat so far coming at Beechgrove in the first round of the Senior Cup.

History made as NW Women play first match History made as NW Women play first match ( )

There was a little bit of special history made on Sunday as the NW Women’s team took to the field at Ardmore for the first time.

Alan Dunn remembered Alan Dunn remembered ( )

There was a somber mood among the NW cricketing fraternity this week with the death of Alan Dunn following a short illness.

Bready, Coleraine and Fox Lodge win in T20 cup Bready, Coleraine and Fox Lodge win in T20 cup ( )

The latest round of T20 action in the Faughan Valley and Eric Cooke T20 cups saw victories for Bready, Coleraine, and Fox Lodge.

The best Barr none as Strabane gain vital win The best Barr none as Strabane gain vital win ( )

Strabane recorded their first win in this season's Premier Division when edging out Glendermott by a single run in a real thriller at the Rectory.

Burndennett and Bready start Women's League with wins Burndennett and Bready start Women's League with wins ( )

Burndennett and Bready set the tone in North West Women's League with comprehensive victories in the opening games of the 2019 season.

Donemana extend their lead Donemana extend their lead ( )

Donemana extended their lead at the top of the Long’s SuperValu Premiership table but the match of the day on Saturday was Strabane’s victory, by the minimum margin, over Glendermott.

Donemana stay top with win at Ballyspallen Donemana stay top with win at Ballyspallen ( )

Donemana cemented their place at the top of the Premier Division on Saturday on a day when rain again took a hand in proceedings across the league.

NW T20 round-up NW T20 round-up ( )

Wins for holders Brigade, Donemana, Eglinton and Coleraine, while Ardmore prove too strong for Newbuildings in the only Championship game.

Busy weekend ahead in NW Busy weekend ahead in NW ( )

There's another busy weekend ahead for NW Premier Division sides with the start of the new T20 blast on Friday night followed by a full programme of league fixtures on Saturday.

McGonigle excited by Brigade challenge McGonigle excited by Brigade challenge ( )

The NW senior cup action got underway at the weekend with most of the big guns emerging unscathed. The only exception was Bready whose indifferent start to the campaign saw them bowing out after defeat at Glendermott.

Brigade unveil new sponsor Brigade unveil new sponsor ( )

One of Northern Ireland's biggest companies is extending its support of cricket. Robinson Services already sponsors the NCU's Leagues and has now become the sponsors of Brigade in the North-West Union.

Titans to clash in Senior Cup Titans to clash in Senior Cup ( )

NORTH West Senior Cup holders Brigade and Donemana, whose six-year reign was ended in last year’s semi-final by the Beechgrove side, were yesterday drawn together in the quarter-finals of this year’s competition.

NW Senior Cup quarter-finals draw NW Senior Cup quarter-finals draw ( )

The draw for the last eight of the NW Senior Cup has pitted the two competition favourites together.

Wins for Brigade, Eglinton and Coleraine Wins for Brigade, Eglinton and Coleraine ( )

Conditions proved to be perfect on Sunday for the six replays of the senior games in the Premiership and Championship that were washed out on the opening day of the season.

Glendermott oust Bready in Cup Glendermott oust Bready in Cup ( )

The first round of this year's North West Senior Cup was played in glorious sunshine on Saturday and there was one big-name casualty in the opening exchanges when champions Bready where knocked out by newly-promoted Glendermott.

Brigade start their defence of the Senior Cup Brigade start their defence of the Senior Cup ( )

Brigade begin their defence of the Senior Cup at home to Burndennett tomorrow with a trophy already in the Beechgrove pavilion.

Strabane up for the cup Strabane up for the cup ( )

It’s hard to believe but 26 years have passed since Strabane last lifted the NW Senior Cup. Back in 1993 Tony Johnston and Terence Patton senior combined to easily beat pre-game favourites Brigade. Patton starred with the ball taking 14 wickets and Johnson smashed 92 off just 52 balls to set-up a ten-wicket win.

Busy weekend in store in NW Busy weekend in store in NW ( )

There's a really busy programme of local cricket lined up for this weekend, with the first round ties in this season's Senior Cup taking place on Saturday, followed on Sunday by the replays of the league matches washed out on the opening day of the season.

Britton and Orr lead Chairman's XI to victory Britton and Orr lead Chairman's XI to victory ( )

Andy Britton and Tommy Orr starred with the bat as the NW Chairman's XI beat the Emerging Warriors in a T20 contest at Donemana.

Brigade and Ballyspallen win Charity cups Brigade and Ballyspallen win Charity cups ( )

Stephen Kennedy and Jonny Robinson starred as Ballyspallen and Brigade won the Sam McConnell Charity Cups at The Rectory.

North West round-up North West round-up ( )

Ian Callender's take on the weekend fixtures in the North West.

Bready, Brigade, Ballyspallen and Donemana win Bready, Brigade, Ballyspallen and Donemana win ( )

After last weekend's false start there were no problems this time around as the Premier Division season got up and running in Saturday's bright sunshine.

Riddles looking for Donemana to continue winning start Riddles looking for Donemana to continue winning start ( )

While Storm Hannah caused major disruption across the north last Saturday, one match did manage to beat the weather, as Donemana’s endeavours and patience was rewarded with a home win against Glendermott.

Take two for NW cricket Take two for NW cricket ( )

It's something of a 'Take Two' scenario across the North West Cricket Union this weekend as teams try again to get their 2019 campaigns up and running.

Donemana looking for second win Donemana looking for second win ( )

If Donemana can make it two out of two against Coleraine they will prove they are in for the long haul this time round.

NW confirm Premier league rearragements NW confirm Premier league rearragements ( )

The Premier league matches that were washed out last weekend will now be played on Sunday May 12th.

NW T20 Blast fixtures NW T20 Blast fixtures ( )

The Euro T20 Slam wasn't the only competition this week to unveil their fixtures. The details of the NW matches were also published, albeit without the Bollywood glamour.

Tyrone at the double Tyrone at the double ( )

The North West’s new Warriors Challenge series got under way last week with two victories for the Tyrone U20 side against their County Derry counterparts at Bready.

Stevie Moore joins Glendermott Stevie Moore joins Glendermott ( )

Glendermott's playing squad has been boosted with the arrival of Stevie Moore from Drummond.

Donemana beat Glendermott in season opener Donemana beat Glendermott in season opener ( )

It was to be something of an anti-climactic start to the North West cricket season on Saturday as heavy overnight rain meant that just one game in the Premier Division was played to completion.

NW season set for exciting start NW season set for exciting start ( )

The new North West cricket season gets under way this coming Saturday and there are several mouth-watering games in the Premier Division to mark the start of another summer.

NW Preview 15: Strabane NW Preview 15: Strabane ( )

It has been another fairly quiet winter at the Park with the only confirmed leaver being Rachit Gaur who has joined Brigade.

Ian Callender's North West preview Ian Callender's North West preview ( )

A look at this weekend opening fixtures in the North West Premiership.

A Change of Pace For Women’s Cricket A Change of Pace For Women’s Cricket ( )

As the 2019 season looms expectantly on the horizon, and everyone begins to rummage around their house to try and find the foldable chairs and the warm fleeces – typical essentials for any cricket match. I think now is the best time to advertise the fact that this season is most definitely ‘exceeding boundaries’.

Settled Strabane looking to challenge again Settled Strabane looking to challenge again ( )

Strabane defied the critics expectations in 2018 with an excellent campaign that saw them challenging for honours on two fronts, reaching the Irish Cup semi-finals and finishing fourth in the Premier League.

NW Preview 14: Bonds Glen NW Preview 14: Bonds Glen ( )

The Bee Gees have been busy in the weeks leading up to the start of the summer with several new faces set to appear at the Glen this season.

NW Preview 13: Burndennett NW Preview 13: Burndennett ( )

The Tyrone side are another team who could easily be capable of more than we've seen over the last couple of seasons.

Warriors Challenge Series Warriors Challenge Series ( )

The NWCU have announced details of a new ‘Warriors Challenge Series’ this season that will see Co .Derry versus Co. Tyrone go head-to-head in a series of 50-over and T20 games.

St Johnston sign teenage South African St Johnston sign teenage South African ( )

He's 19 year-old South African Jacques Moss, who is a top order batsman and right-arm off-spinner.

Can Bready defy the odds again? Can Bready defy the odds again? ( )

IT wasn’t quite on a par with Leicester City winning the Premier League but Bready lifting the Premiership last season defied all predictions.

NW Preview 12: Killyclooney NW Preview 12: Killyclooney ( )

It's more of the same this summer for Killyclooney after a very competitive Championship season last time around.

NW Preview 11: Fox Lodge NW Preview 11: Fox Lodge ( )

It's probably fair to say that any season that ends in relegation won't be top of the highlights reel, however one thing about the Foxies is that they never dwell on these things for too long.

NW Preview 10: Ardmore NW Preview 10: Ardmore ( )

It was to be a disappointing 2018 for the Bleachgreen side, culminating in relegation to the Championship in the end-of-season play-off.

Mixed news as Drummond withdraw completely Mixed news as Drummond withdraw completely ( )

Union Administrator David Bradley has been a busy man over the past few weeks as he tries to unravel a new format for the region's Qualifying Leagues.

NW Preview 9: Newbuildings NW Preview 9: Newbuildings ( )

Quite a few comings and goings at Newbuildings ahead of the new season including a change of overseas player--former Ballyspallen wicket-keeper/ batsman Darnell McCallum replacing Clinton Pienaar at the club.

NW Previews 8: Ballyspallen NW Previews 8: Ballyspallen ( )

After a couple of seasons knocking on the door, it is a welcome return to the Premier Division for Ballyspallen.

NW Previews 7: Coleraine NW Previews 7: Coleraine ( )

While there may not be that much actual movement at Sandel Lodge this season, there is still some uncertainty surrounding the availability of some of Coleraine's big-game players for the upcoming summer.

NW Preview 6: Bready NW Preview 6: Bready ( )

The new North West champions enjoyed a year to savour in 2018 and no doubt having tasted title success they will be desperate now for more.

Death of Eddie McGurk Death of Eddie McGurk ( )

It is with very deep sadness that we have learned and must report the passing of one of Strabane Cricket Club’s most reverently respected former players, Eddie McGurk.

NW Preview 5: St Johnston NW Preview 5: St Johnston ( )

After a few seasons of consolidation there is little doubt that an air of optimism has started forming again at the Boathole.

NW Preview 4: Glendermott NW Preview 4: Glendermott ( )

It's a return to the Premier Division for the first time in five years for the Rectory boys after an impressive league campaign last time around.

NW Preview 3: Eglinton NW Preview 3: Eglinton ( )

The villagers looked to be a club in disarray at the end of last season but seem to have rallied considerably since the start of the year.

Drummond withdraw from Senior cricket Drummond withdraw from Senior cricket ( )

The North West Championship will be a 7-team affair this year after Drummond formally requested to opt out of the senior division due to a lack of players.

NW Preview 2: Brigade NW Preview 2: Brigade ( )

It was a largely successful season at Beechgrove last time with the Waterside club taking home two of the three domestic trophies- the senior cup and the Faughan Valley.

NW Preview 1: Donemana NW Preview 1: Donemana ( )

Having carried all before them domestically for a number of seasons, 2018 was a very quiet year at the Holm, in the senior ranks at least.

Glendermott sign Ryan Barr Glendermott sign Ryan Barr ( )

Ryan Barr has left champions Bready and will play the 2019 season at The Rectory.

Q1 League and Cup fixtures Q1 League and Cup fixtures ( )

The league and cup fixtures for Q1 have been confirmed and once again it will be last season's double champions Donemana that will be the team to beat.

Letterkenny join Derry Midweek League Letterkenny join Derry Midweek League ( )

At a time when the trend is for clubs to fold, there's a good news story with the formation of a Letterkenny side that will play in the Derry Midweek League this season.

Expanded role for McGregor Expanded role for McGregor ( )

Last week's North West AGM saw a number of changes approved by delegates, one of which was the announcement that Ian McGregor is set to take on an expanded coaching and talent development role in the Warriors set-up.

Glendermott sign Gareth Burns Glendermott sign Gareth Burns ( )

Glendermott have confirmed the signing of seamer Gareth Burns from Ballyspallen.

Poskitt confirms Bready switch Poskitt confirms Bready switch ( )

Coleraine teenager Marcus Poskitt will be playing the 2019 season with Bready after agreeing a move to the Premier league champions.

Just what the Doc ordered Just what the Doc ordered ( )

There's a new sheriff in town for the North West Cricket Union as Brian Dougherty has taken over from Andrew Fleming as Union Chair following this week's AGM.

Boost for NW as five players named in squads Boost for NW as five players named in squads ( )

There was a major boost for the NW region with five players named in representative squads - three in the Ireland Academy and two in the Women's Super 3 Series.

North West News North West News ( )

The latest news of moves and signings in the North West as the season approaches.

Stephen Dunn joins Eglinton Stephen Dunn joins Eglinton ( )

After a quiet winter in the North West, there have been a number of personnel changes in recent days with another couple confirmed over the weekend. Stephen Dunn has joined Eglinton having spent the last couple of seasons at Ardmore.

Bready hit by Young blow Bready hit by Young blow ( )

Bready's hopes of retaining their Premiership title have been dealt a severe blow with the departure of Craig Young to North Down.

Allen confirms Brigade switch Allen confirms Brigade switch ( )

Eglinton all-rounder Ross Allen has confirmed to CricketEurope that he will be joining Brigade for the 2019 season.

NW Senior Cup dates NW Senior Cup dates ( )

The opening round of the Senior Cup takes place on May 11th, while the final is a week later from its traditional date due to Ireland's Test match at Lord's.

NW Championship and Sammy Jeffrey fixtures NW Championship and Sammy Jeffrey fixtures ( )

The NW have announced the Championship and Sammy Jeffrey Shield fixtures and dates for the forthcoming season.

NW Premier League fixtures released NW Premier League fixtures released ( )

The NWCU have unveiled the Premier League fixtures ahead of the start of the season on Saturday April 27th.

Rachit Gaur joins Brigade Rachit Gaur joins Brigade ( )

Former Railway Union and Strabane all-rounder Rachit Gaur has decided to join Brigade ahead of the new season.

Rankin confirms Moseley switch Rankin confirms Moseley switch ( )

Ireland pace bowler Boyd Rankin has confirmed he will be staying in England to play for Moseley in the Birmingham Premier League.

Fox Lodge sign overseas player Fox Lodge sign overseas player ( )

Fox Lodge have signed 22 year-old South African all-rounder Coenie Nel as their overseas player for the 2019 season.

Two NW players named in Irish under-age squads Two NW players named in Irish under-age squads ( )

Bready's Alana Dalzell and Eglinton's Zara Craig have been named in the Ireland Girls Under 19 and 15 squads.

Mixed fortunes for NW players in Ireland squads Mixed fortunes for NW players in Ireland squads ( )

There was mixed news for the NW in the various Ireland squads which were named for the Oman Quadrangular tournament, and the subsequent series against Afghanistan in India.

Warriors boosted by Rankin return Warriors boosted by Rankin return ( )

The NW Warriors have been given a boost ahead of the new season with the news that pace bowler Boyd Rankin will be available for all the campaign following confirmation of his release by Warwickshire.

Warriors launch defence of interpro title in NCU Warriors launch defence of interpro title in NCU ( )

The NW Warriors will start the defence of the their interpro championship title with an away trip to the Northern Knights at the end of May.

Scanlon is running for Derry Sports Personality award Scanlon is running for Derry Sports Personality award ( )

Davy Scanlon is one of 12 nominees shortlisted for the 2018 Derry Sports Personality of the Year.

Cup final venues decided Cup final venues decided ( )

This year's NW Senior Cup decider will take place at Eglinton following a meeting of the Union's Match Allocation Group.

Sammy Jeffrey and Q Cup draws Sammy Jeffrey and Q Cup draws ( )

The draws have been made for the Sammy Jeffrey and Qualifying Cups for next season.