NCU News 2020

Life in colour Life in colour ( )

ALL top flight games in the NCU from next year will be played in coloured clothing, despite clubs being unable to agree.

Adey Woodvale bound? Adey Woodvale bound? ( )

Aditya Adey could be on his way to Woodvale from North Down.

CIYMS out to conquer Europe CIYMS out to conquer Europe ( )

CIYMS will face teams from Romania, Denmark, Finland and Russia in the European (T10) Cricket League next June.

CIYMS learn European Cup opponents CIYMS learn European Cup opponents ( )

CIYMS have learned their opponents for the European Cricket League 2021 tournament which will be held in Spain next June.

Knights opportunity swings it for Pretorius Knights opportunity swings it for Pretorius ( )

Ruhan Pretorius says Northern Knights coach Simon Johnston persuaded him to continue to play in the NCU.

Woodvale lifeline for Pretorius? Woodvale lifeline for Pretorius? ( )

Woodvale could be close to pulling off a major coup with the signing of Ruhan Pretorius.

Dundrum unveil Kearsley as coach Dundrum unveil Kearsley as coach ( )

Dundrum's new coach is Dan Kearsley, signed from Bridgenorth in Shropshire.

NCU clubs vote for new league structure NCU clubs vote for new league structure ( )

Clubs in the Northern Cricket Union have agreed almost unanimously to a new structure which will see the Premier League move to a 10-team league from the 2022 season

Fazal back at Lisburn Fazal back at Lisburn ( )

Indian international Faiz Fazal will be back as overseas professional at Lisburn for the 2021 season.

Botha blow for Woodvale Botha blow for Woodvale ( )

Woodvale have been dealt a blow with the news that Pat Botha won't be arriving at the club as their overseas player for the 2021 season.

Shocked Pretorius left looking for a new club Shocked Pretorius left looking for a new club ( )

Ruhan Pretorius is on the look-out for a new club after receiving the shock news yesterday morning that North Down have released him from his contract

North Down release Ruhan Pretorius North Down release Ruhan Pretorius ( )

North Down have released Ruhan Pretorius from his contractual obligations.

CSNI sign Ben Mackey CSNI sign Ben Mackey ( )

CSNI have signed pace bowler Ben Mackey from Section One side Armagh.

CIYMS sign Murray Commins CIYMS sign Murray Commins ( )

CIYMS have signed Murray Commins for the 2021 season.

Downpatrick down Downpatrick down ( )

DOWNPATRICK will drop down one section in the NCU Senior League next year, the union has confirmed.

Downpatrick request to drop to Section 2 Downpatrick request to drop to Section 2 ( )

The NCU has agreed to Downpatrick's request to drop to Section 2 in the 2021 season.

Woodvale pull off stunning coup Woodvale pull off stunning coup ( )

Woodvale have pulled off a stunning coup with the capture of opening batsman James Hall from Waringstown.

CSNI swoop for Phoenix's Ben White CSNI swoop for Phoenix's Ben White ( )

CSNI have signed Ben White from Phoenix.

Cyril Vennard has died Cyril Vennard has died ( )

Laurelvale cricketer and NIACUS umpire Cyril Vennard died today after a short illness.

Magowan rejoins Muckamore from North Down Magowan rejoins Muckamore from North Down ( )

Wicketkeeper Jamie Magowan has returned to Muckamore from Premier League side North Down.

Downpatrick in player appeal Downpatrick in player appeal ( )

AN appeal has gone out from Downpatrick Cricket Club for new players to help save the famous club.

CSNI sign New Zealander Luke Georgeson CSNI sign New Zealander Luke Georgeson ( )

CSNI have made their first addition ahead of next season by signing New Zealand U19 all-rounder Luke Georgeson.

Hume confirms Waringstown switch Hume confirms Waringstown switch ( )

Graham Hume has confirmed he will be joining Waringstown for the 2021 season.

Mulder to return to Australia Mulder to return to Australia ( )

Ireland international leg-spinner Jacob Mulder won’t be coming back to CIYMS for the 2021 season after opting to return to Australia.

Boultwoods sign for Cregagh Boultwoods sign for Cregagh ( )

Cregagh have secured the signings of Craig and Ross Boultwood from Downpatrick.

Carrickfergus sign McCarter Carrickfergus sign McCarter ( )

Carrickfergus have made their third signing of the close season with the capture of Graeme McCarter from CSNI.

Changes proposed for NCU Changes proposed for NCU ( )

THE annual meeting of the Northern Cricket Union will be held on Wednesday December 2 when clubs will vote on proposals to restructure the leagues for the 2022 season.

Dundrum sign player-coach Dundrum sign player-coach ( )

Dundrum have signed English cricketer Daniel Kearsley as their player-coach for the 2021 season.

Carrick confirm Snyman return Carrick confirm Snyman return ( )

Carrickfergus have confirmed the return of Jacques Snyman for the 2021 season.

NCU Awards (7): Innings of the Year NCU Awards (7): Innings of the Year ( )

Ruhan Pretorius picks up his second seasonal award as his 120* from 56 balls in North Down’s Robinson Services Cup semi-final triumph over Instonians is named Innings of the Year.

Carrickfergus sign Jeremy Lawlor Carrickfergus sign Jeremy Lawlor ( )

Carrickfergus have signed former Glamorgan all-rounder Jeremy Lawlor from Phoenix.

NCU Awards (6) Captain of the Year NCU Awards (6) Captain of the Year ( )

North Down captain Alistair Shields has been named Captain of the Year after he led his side to the Robinson Services Cup title.

NCU Awards (5) Team of the Year NCU Awards (5) Team of the Year ( )

Cregagh’s 1st XI have been named Team of the Year after they secured a league and cup double this season.

NCU Awards (4) Wicketkeeper of the Year NCU Awards (4) Wicketkeeper of the Year ( )

North Down’s Jamie Magowan has been named Wicketkeeper of the Year after he played a role in 16 dismissals this season.

Death of Herbie Hawthorne Death of Herbie Hawthorne ( )

All at CricketEurope pass their condolences to International Umpire Mark Hawthorne and former Woodvale player Gavin on the passing of their father ‘Herbie’.

Los CIYMS van a España Los CIYMS van a España ( )

CIYMS won the war of attrition as they defended 110 to beat YMCA by 15 runs and earn the right to represent Ireland at the 2021 European League in La Manga.

NCU Awards (3) Signing of the season NCU Awards (3) Signing of the season ( )

CSNI’s Ross Adair has been named Signing of the Season after he scored 177 runs during the six innings he played for his new club this season.

CIYMS to take on YMCA CIYMS to take on YMCA ( )

CIYMS will play YMCA for the right to represent Ireland in next April’s European League in La Manga after the Dublin side confirmed their favourites tag to beat Donemana in the All-Ireland T20 final at sunny Belmont.

NCU Awards (2) NCU Awards (2) ( )

Johnny Morton continues with the end of season awards and it's the turn of the NCU Women’s Player of the Year for the 2020 season.

NCU Awards (1) NCU Awards (1) ( )

Johnny Morton presents his end of season awards, and first up is the NCU Men's Player of the Year accolade.

Bangor claim Bowl in unbeaten season Bangor claim Bowl in unbeaten season ( )

Bangor defeated Drumaness SuperKings by eight wickets to claim the Robinson Services Bowl and complete an unbeaten season.

CIYMS beaten by Donemana CIYMS beaten by Donemana ( )

The cup specialists ended CIYMS’s reign in yesterday’s semi-final at Bready which was decided by what proved to be the penultimate ball of the match.

Drumaness Super Kings look forward to final clash Drumaness Super Kings look forward to final clash ( )

Drumaness Super Kings may have only been formed eight months ago but they are already into their first final.

Bangor looking to end season unbeaten Bangor looking to end season unbeaten ( )

With an unbeaten record up to this point, Bangor captain Adam McCusker is hoping his side can end the 2020 season on a high by winning the Robinson Services Bowl on Saturday.

All Ireland T20 takes centre stage All Ireland T20 takes centre stage ( )

WHILE the wait goes on for 50-over cricket in Ireland – following the abandonment of yesterday’s inter-provincial at Shaw’s Bridge, the four provincial winners of this season’s T20 Cup competitions meet in the All-Ireland T20 Cup semi-finals weekend.

NCU Statszone NCU Statszone ( )

Lies,damn lies and statistics. John Boomer has produced the NCU statszone for the 2020 season.

Five thoughts from the NCU weekend Five thoughts from the NCU weekend ( )

North Down, Cregagh and Waringstown Women were all big winners at the weekend as all three picked up their respective league titles.

North Down clinch Robinson Services Cup North Down clinch Robinson Services Cup ( )

North Down captain Alistair Shields is hoping Sunday’s Robinson Services Cup seven-wicket final victory over Waringstown is just the beginning of the silverware haul for his side.

North Down end seven-year itch North Down end seven-year itch ( )

NORTH Down ended a seven-year drought when Alistair Shields lifted the Robinson Services (T20) Cup yesterday in front of their own spectators after a comfortable seven wickets victory over Waringstown.

Waringstown and North Down to meet in final Waringstown and North Down to meet in final ( )

Waringstown and North Down will meet in the Robinson Services Cup final on Sunday (2pm) after they both won their semi-final encounters against CIYMS and Instonians respectively on Saturday at The Green.

Nelson hoping Waringstown peak in semi-final clash Nelson hoping Waringstown peak in semi-final clash ( )

Waringstown captain Lee Nelson believes his side still haven’t hit peak form this season but is hoping they can do just that in their Robinson Services Cup semi-final against CIYMS at The Green.

Safety net for CIYMS Safety net for CIYMS ( )

CIYMS will have two chances to represent Ireland in next year’s European Cricket League after the pandemic cancelled this year’s tournament.

Stirling back for North Down Stirling back for North Down ( )

North Down will welcome back Paul Stirling for their Robinson Services Cup semi-final against Instonians at The Green.

Belmont to host All-Ireland T20 final Belmont to host All-Ireland T20 final ( )

Belmont, home ground of CIYMS will host this season's All-Ireland T20 Cup on Saturday September 19th.

Stirling big draw for NCU Stirling big draw for NCU ( )

IT DIDN’T take long for the NCU to announce the return of Paul Stirling for Robinson Services Cup finals weekend.

Waringstown sign Malan for 2021 campaign Waringstown sign Malan for 2021 campaign ( )

The 2020 season may not have ended yet but Waringstown have already sorted their overseas professional for next year with Andre Malan set to join the club.

Waringstown clinch Women's trophy Waringstown clinch Women's trophy ( )

WARINGSTOWN won the first NCU trophy of the season yesterday with a last over victory in a low-scoring Gallagher Women’s Challenge Cup final over Civil Service North at The Lawn.

Waringstown beat CSNI to lift Women's Cup Waringstown beat CSNI to lift Women's Cup ( )

Waringstown celebrated winning the Gallagher Women's Senior Challenge Cup for the first time in their history, edging out CSNI in a tense final.

Thrills and spills in NCU T20 finals Thrills and spills in NCU T20 finals ( )

CIYMS are the first team through to All-Ireland T20 finals day after they retained the Lagan Valley Steels T20 Cup with another highly professional display in Comber, while at Saintfield, Cregagh won the T20 Trophy in controversial circumstances.

History makers Cregagh lift LVS Trophy History makers Cregagh lift LVS Trophy ( )

History was made at The Demesne in Saintfield as Cregagh claimed their first Cup win in Senior Competition with a Super-Over victory over the home side.

Jones and Adair star as CIYMS clinch T20 crown Jones and Adair star as CIYMS clinch T20 crown ( )

It was once again Nigel Jones that led from the front for his side as CIYMS retained their LVS Twenty20 Cup crown with an 11-run victory over North Down at The Green on Sunday.

Gelston to leave Armagh Gelston to leave Armagh ( )

Neil Gelston will play his final game for Armagh next weekend before departing for Drumaness Superkings, ending a successful five-year spell with the club.

Instonians clinch semi-final berth Instonians clinch semi-final berth ( )

INSTONIANS were the only host club to beat the weather in yesterday’s final round of Robinson Services (T20) League Cup games and their reward is a place in next Saturday’s semi-finals.

Murray boost for Waringstown Murray boost for Waringstown ( )

IRELAND international Cara Murray is set to take her place in the Waringstown side for tomorrow’s Gallagher Women’s Challenge Cup final against holders Civil Service North at The Lawn (10.30am).

Cup glory beckons in NCU Cup glory beckons in NCU ( )

FOUR teams, two trophies, one venue. The NCU have taken advantage of the postponement of last week’s Lagan Valley Steels T20 Cup final to turn it into an attractive double header at The Lawn** with the Gallagher Women’s Challenge Cup final.

Holders CIYMS confident ahead of North Down clash Holders CIYMS confident ahead of North Down clash ( )

Defending LVS Twenty20 Cup champions CIYMS enter yet another final full of confidence as they prepare to take on North Down at The Lawn on Sunday (3pm start).

Wilson hopeful of CSNI cup action Wilson hopeful of CSNI cup action ( )

NORTHERN Knights skipper Gary Wilson could only watch the rain at Stormont yesterday as yet another inter-provincial match was washed out and his thoughts were already turning, with dread, to tomorrow’s vital Robinson Services League Cup match at The Lawn.

CSNI and Waringstown meet in cup decider CSNI and Waringstown meet in cup decider ( )

The Gallagher Women's Challenge Cup final takes place this Sunday as Waringstown and Civil Service Northern Ireland face each other at The Lawn, Waringstown (10:30am).

Green confirned as final venue Green confirned as final venue ( )

THE rain may have ended any hope of play in yesterday’s first inter-provincial clash of the season between Northern Knights and Leinster Lightning at Comber, but The Green has been confirmed as the venue for both semi-finals and final in the Robinson Services Cup.

NCU beat Jersey in tour opener NCU beat Jersey in tour opener ( )

A fine bowling display by NCU Women ensured they won the opening match against Jersey by 35 runs.

Dundrum upbeat despite flooding Dundrum upbeat despite flooding ( )

Despite their ground being flooded due to the rainfall brought by Storm Francis, Dundrum Chairman of Selectors and stalwart Jeff Maguire says it’s ‘far from doom and gloom’ around the club.

Comber to host Robinson Services Cup deciders Comber to host Robinson Services Cup deciders ( )

Comber will host the semi-finals and final of the Robinson Services Cup.

North Down and CIYMS assured semi-finals berths North Down and CIYMS assured semi-finals berths ( )

IT may have been a wash-out in the Robinson Services League Cup on Saturday but CIYMS and North Down did not mind — it confirmed their place in the semi-finals on Saturday week.

Pretorius preparing for Irish life Pretorius preparing for Irish life ( )

RAIN won the day in the Robinson Services League Cup with not a ball bowled in any of the four games, but the two points for the abandoned matches were enough for CIYMS and North Down to book their place in the knock-out semi-finals on Saturday week.

Five things we learned from the NCU weekend Five things we learned from the NCU weekend ( )

Another week of NCU cricket has come and gone. From the Northern Knights to young stars and the Women’s Challenge Cup semi-finals to flying form, we jot down five thoughts from the week that was.

NCU round-up NCU round-up ( )

Ian Callender rounds up all the weekend action from a busy NCU schedule.

CSNI and Waringstown to meet in NCU Women's final CSNI and Waringstown to meet in NCU Women's final ( )

CSNI and Waringstown will meet in the final of the NCU Women's Cup after semi-final wins against Lurgan and Muckamore.

Week Five round up in NCU Premier Week Five round up in NCU Premier ( )

Lisburn break their 'duck' to leave Carrick still winless as North Down and CIYMS both win and continue to share the top spot.

Clash of the big hitters Clash of the big hitters ( )

ROSS Adair, for now, is quite happy to be mentioned in the same sentence as Paul Stirling but the big hitters will clash head-on in the most exciting clash of the day at Stormont.

CSNI dynamic duo frightening CSNI dynamic duo frightening ( )

James Kennedy reflects on an incredible partnership between Ross Adair and Marc Ellison.

Battle of Britton Battle of Britton ( )

IT was the perfect start to the delayed cricket season for Trevor Britton last month – a wicket with his first delivery for NCU champions CIYMS. But, then, doing and coping with the unexpected is nothing new for the Donemana man.

Smith continues to shine Smith continues to shine ( )

It was again Nikolai Smith that helped propel Instonians towards victory as the Shaws Bridge side brought CIYMS’ unbeaten run to an end.

Five thoughts from the NCU action Five thoughts from the NCU action ( )

Another weekend of NCU cricket is in the books and it was a good one with runs aplenty and the finalists for the Twenty20 Cup both decided on Sunday.

Stirling swan song will be T20 final Stirling swan song will be T20 final ( )

PAUL Stirling’s final game for North Down will be the T20 Cup final against CIYMS on Sunday-week.

North Down and CIYMS to meet in T20 Cup final North Down and CIYMS to meet in T20 Cup final ( )

North Down and CIYMS will meet in the final of the T20 Cup after semi-final wins against Waringstown and Lisburn.

A Bridge Too Far for CIYMS A Bridge Too Far for CIYMS ( )

CIYMS stumble to a 10 run defeat at Shaw's Bridge as Waringstown, CSNI and North Down win to make it a four-way tie at the top of the table.

Stirling to make North Down debut at Waringstown Stirling to make North Down debut at Waringstown ( )

Paul Stirling will make his North Down debut on Sunday when they travel to The Lawn for their Twenty20 Cup semi-final against Waringstown.

Family affair for Muckamore Family affair for Muckamore ( )

It’ll be a family affair for Muckamore this weekend when they travel to Armagh with two sets of father and son pairings taking to the field.

Hard work paying off for Ellison Hard work paying off for Ellison ( )

Marc Ellison was rewarded for the work he has been putting into further adapting his Twenty20 game with a first half-century of the season against Lisburn on Saturday.

Eight thoughts from the NCU weekend Eight thoughts from the NCU weekend ( )

Johnny Morton on his observations from the weekend's action in the NCU.

CIYMS reach T20 cup semi-final CIYMS reach T20 cup semi-final ( )

CIYMS go marching on. The NCU champions beat Woodvale to reach the semi-finals of the T20 Cup, the day after they became the only team to win their first three games in the League Cup.

CIYMS set the pace CIYMS set the pace ( )

JUST three games into the abbreviated NCU season, CIYMS are already out on their own at the top of the table.

CIYMS sit at 'Top Table' CIYMS sit at 'Top Table' ( )

CIYMS sit alone at the top of the Premier League table following their 87 win demolition of struggling Carrickfergus.

CSNI bid to retain Women's Challenge Cup CSNI bid to retain Women's Challenge Cup ( )

Holders CSNI travel to The Green in the first round of the Women's Cup.

Woodvale flying high Woodvale flying high ( )

IT HAS been the perfect start to life in the big time for Woodvale in what is set to be the perfect season.

North Down and Instonians to meet again North Down and Instonians to meet again ( )

Just six days after facing off in the Twenty20 Cup first round, North Down and Instonians will meet each other once again tomorrow.

Lisburn aim for consistency Lisburn aim for consistency ( )

Lisburn will head into a clash against CSNI this weekend on the back of their first win of the season.

Mulder back and firing Mulder back and firing ( )

Jacob Mulder, who took 47 wickets last season as CI won four trophies, has started the current campaign by collecting another four in two games.

Nelson looking to build momentum Nelson looking to build momentum ( )

Waringstown captain Lee Nelson is hoping two victories over the weekend will have set the platform for his side to go on and achieve even more success this season.

Manley set for Lisburn debut Manley set for Lisburn debut ( )

Josh Manley is set to make his Lisburn debut on Saturday in their clash with CSNI at Stormont.

Kennedy pleased with CSNI effort Kennedy pleased with CSNI effort ( )

CSNI picked up their first victory of the season with a five-run triumph over Instonians on Saturday in a game where the winning margin doesn’t begin to tell the story of the match.

North Down and Waringstown to meet in cup semi-finals North Down and Waringstown to meet in cup semi-finals ( )

WARINGSTOWN will meet North Down in the semi-finals of the T20 Cup after both completed seven-wicket victories on Sunday.

Five-star Eaglestone leads Waringstown into semis Five-star Eaglestone leads Waringstown into semis ( )

Phil Eaglestone's five-wicket haul ensured Waringstown beat CSNI comfortably to reach the T20 Cup semi-finals where they are joined by North Down and Lisburn. Holders CIYMS match at Woodvale was postponed.

Just what the doc ordered Just what the doc ordered ( )

Chris Dougherty was the days top scorers as he hit 80 to help CIYMS maintain their winning start to the season.

Munsey's the word Munsey's the word ( )

Two days before the opening game of the 2020 season, Carrickfergus announced the signing of Scotland international batsman George Munsey.

NCU welcome spectators return NCU welcome spectators return ( )

SPECTATORS can return to matches from today after the Northern Ireland executive ruling - which took NCU officials by surprise.

White excited by Instonians potential White excited by Instonians potential ( )

After kicking their campaign off with a narrow victory over Waringstown, Instonians captain Andrew White is looking his side to go up another gear when they face CSNI and North Down this weekend.

Adey keen to impress Adey keen to impress ( )

Aditya Adey marked his North Down debut with a match-winning performance as he helped his new club to an eight-wicket victory over Carrickfergus.

CSNI suffer Thompson blow CSNI suffer Thompson blow ( )

STUART Thompson’s 11th hour call-up to the Ireland squad for their 18-day stay in England could prove a fatal blow to Civil Service North’s hopes of making an impact in this year’s T20 League Cup.

Instonians beat Waringstown in thriller Instonians beat Waringstown in thriller ( )

Instonians edged out Waringstown at The Lawn by three runs, while there were also wins for Woodvale, CIYMS and North Down.

Downpatrick keen on more cup glory Downpatrick keen on more cup glory ( )

Downpatrick captain Ross Boultwood will be hoping his side can carry their impressive Twenty20 form of recent years into the 2020 campaign.

New look Muckamore hit reset button New look Muckamore hit reset button ( )

Muckamore are keen to make a new start after suffering relegation in 2019, and have skipper Sam Gordon at the helm.

Munsey coup for Carrick Munsey coup for Carrick ( )

Carrickfergus have pulled off a major coup with the signing of Scottish international George Munsey.

Gill perfect fit for Carrickfergus Gill perfect fit for Carrickfergus ( )

Carrickfergus captain Michael Gilmour says Neil Gill has been a ‘perfect fit’ at the club since joining from Muckamore.

Cregagh looking to take next step Cregagh looking to take next step ( )

Cregagh captain Aaron Johnston is hoping this will be the year where his side can get over the line and pick up some Twenty20 silverware after narrowly missing out in previous seasons.

All systems go in NCU All systems go in NCU ( )

IT is still all systems go for a curtailed but meaningful season of club cricket, starting on Saturday, with a place in the National T20 Cup semi-finals the prize for the provincial winners.

20/20 Vision Sees Cricket Start 20/20 Vision Sees Cricket Start ( )

The Northern Cricket Union has revealed a major revamp of what remains of its season with a series of competitions all played under 20 over rules.

NCU Preview (10) Holywood NCU Preview (10) Holywood ( )

Chris Hayes is back at the helm for the Belfast side, who are laying solid foundations for the future with their much vaunted youth structures and programmes.

NCU Preview (9) Templepatrick NCU Preview (9) Templepatrick ( )

TCC are delighted with the continued progress of the club and to finish second in section 1 in 2019 was testament to the work that has been done at the club through the development of young players through their own coaching structures.

Spectator farce blights NCU season restart Spectator farce blights NCU season restart ( )

LOCAL cricket was dealt a hammer blow when the Northern Ireland Executive ruled that no spectators will be allowed when the season gets under way.

NCU Preview (8) Instonians NCU Preview (8) Instonians ( )

Instonians captain Andrew White is backing his young guns to make a big contribution when the 2020 season kicks off on July 18.

NCU Preview (7) CIYMS NCU Preview (7) CIYMS ( )

Although CIYMS won’t get the chance to defend two of the four titles they won last season, captain Nigel Jones says his side won’t let their focus slip as they get ready to enter the 2020 campaign.

NCU Preview (6) CSNI NCU Preview (6) CSNI ( )

CSNI captain James Kennedy is confident that new duo Stuart Thompson and Ross Adair are going to have a big impact at the club.

NCU Preview (5) Waringstown NCU Preview (5) Waringstown ( )

Waringstown have Lee Nelson at the helm as the Lawn side look to get back in the hunt for silverware.

NCU Preview (4) Lisburn NCU Preview (4) Lisburn ( )

It's been a busy close season for the Lisburn side who are looking to build on their survival in the Premiership last time out.

Shields keen on silverware Shields keen on silverware ( )

North Down captain Alistair Shields believes their motivation for silverware will be as high as ever when the 2020 season gets underway on July 18th.

CIYMS start T20 defence away at Woodvale CIYMS start T20 defence away at Woodvale ( )

CIYMS, who won a clean sweep of trophies in the NCU last season, will open their defence of the Lagan Valley Steels T20 Cup with an away game against newly promoted Woodvale.

NCU Preview (3): North Down NCU Preview (3): North Down ( )

The Comber side revealed the biggest signing of the summer last week with Irish international Paul Stirling, and he will be joined at The Green by Aditya Adey and Andrew Haire.

NCU Preview (2): Woodvale NCU Preview (2): Woodvale ( )

After a ten year absence Woodvale moved back into the top flight in style topping Section One by a three match margin and winning skipper Jamie Gibson will again lead the side in 2020.

NCU Previews (1): Carrickfergus NCU Previews (1): Carrickfergus ( )

Carrickfergus who finished third in last year’s Premiership behind CIYMS and North Down will surely find it challenging to repeat that placing in this shortened season.

NCU announce restart Plan NCU announce restart Plan ( )

The NCU has joined the North West in announcing that 18th July will mark the start of the season.

The Black Caped Crusader The Black Caped Crusader ( )

Looking back on the Overseas players at Carrickfergus Cricket club since 1987 to date. The first goes back to the period between 2002 and 2006, when Shane Singe arrived.

Death of Jonathan Walsh Death of Jonathan Walsh ( )

Jonathan Walsh has sadly died following a five year battle with a severe neurological condition.

Cliftonville Academy sign Carrickfergus duo Cliftonville Academy sign Carrickfergus duo ( )

Matthew McCord and Max Burton have left Premier League side Carrickfergus to join Cliftonville Academy.

North Down swoop for Stirling North Down swoop for Stirling ( )

NORTH Down have swooped to snap up Paul Stirling in one of the NCU’s biggest ever signings.

Stirling excited by North Down challenge Stirling excited by North Down challenge ( )

Irish international Paul Stirling is relishing the prospect of playing the 2020 season at Comber.

North Down pull off stunning coup North Down pull off stunning coup ( )

Ahead of the possible return of local cricket next month, North Down have pulled off the massive signing of Irish international Paul Stirling.

NCU to release draft match schedule NCU to release draft match schedule ( )

The NCU’s Domestic Directorate are expected to come up with a provisional match schedule for the season after the latest Zoom meeting with clubs this week.

Senior Cup still on the agenda for NCU Senior Cup still on the agenda for NCU ( )

Despite opposition from some clubs, the NCU are still hopeful of running their blue riband competition, the Gallagher Senior Challenge Cup.

Andy McCrea interview Andy McCrea interview ( )

Andy McCrea was appointed as NCU Coaches Mentor earlier this year but his first summer in the role where he should be meeting up with coaches and observing sessions has been heavily impacted.

NCU planning seven match league programme NCU planning seven match league programme ( )

The NCU hope to play a seven-game league season starting on Saturday, July 25, but it will almost certainly be a T20 competition.

Callum Atkinson Q and A Callum Atkinson Q and A ( )

Today we talk to the NCU's Club and Workforce officer and Lisburn cricketer Callum Atkinson

North Down Golden era North Down Golden era ( )

In the first episode of our new local cricket talk show In The Middle, Alistair Bushe talks to three members of the North Down team that dominated the NCU for more than a decade.

Getkate carrying the positives Getkate carrying the positives ( )

In recent times, there would rarely have been a summer’s day that went by where Shane Getkate didn’t partake in some form of cricket activity.

Callum Atkinson Callum Atkinson ( )

Callum Atkinson has been at the forefront of development coaching in the NCU for the past few years, working with a variety of age groups and in the community.

Coaching in lockdown: James Cameron-Dow Coaching in lockdown: James Cameron-Dow ( )

After being announced as new head coach of the NCU Women’s side earlier this year, this should have been James Cameron-Dow’s busiest summer to date.

Gill excited by Carrickfergus challenge Gill excited by Carrickfergus challenge ( )

It would be fair to say that Neil Gill hadn’t been this excited for a new cricket season to roll around in quite some time.

"Twelve team Premiership a mistake," says Jones. "Twelve team Premiership a mistake," says Jones. ( )

A 12-team Premier League appears to be a non-starter if the top clubs in the NCU have their way.

League restructuring hits the buffers League restructuring hits the buffers ( )

The NCU has put its plan for a restructuring of the Senior Leagues on hold as clubs ask for a delay.

Suspension of all cricket activity extended Suspension of all cricket activity extended ( )

The NCU Board has announced the continued suspension of 'all cricket activity' beyond the previously announced date of 28 May.

Pretorius keen on international honours Pretorius keen on international honours ( )

Soon, Pretorius will shed the overseas tag and will qualify as a local player after making the decision to relocate to Northern Ireland on a full-time basis from South Africa.

Patience is a virtue for Van Der Walt Patience is a virtue for Van Der Walt ( )

It is often said that patience is a virtue and it was certainly something that CJ van der Walt had to have a lot of upon his arrival in Northern Ireland.

Dougherty integral to CIYMS success Dougherty integral to CIYMS success ( )

At the core of everything that CIYMS have achieved over the past few years has been wicketkeeper-batsman Chris Dougherty.

Eakin thriving on added responsibility Eakin thriving on added responsibility ( )

North Down all-rounder Peter Eakin believes a new role helped him to produce the best season of his career in 2019.

Benton NCU move on hold Benton NCU move on hold ( )

Jeremy Benton was due to join Derriaghy and eventually CSNI, but that switch has been put on hold due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.

Ambitious Adey having to be patient Ambitious Adey having to be patient ( )

GROWING up, playing cricket with a tennis ball in the streets of central India, it was almost inevitable that Aditya Adey would want to reach the top in the sport which is a religion in his home country.

NCU set competitive deadline NCU set competitive deadline ( )

On the day that the Northern Cricket Union proposed a 12-team Premier League from next season, they have indicated that they consider July 18 to be the latest that a full programme of competitive cricket could commence this season.

NCU Domestic Options for 2020 NCU Domestic Options for 2020 ( )

Although there is as yet no sign of the Lockdown ending the NCU has been considering what sort of season 2020 could look like given a commencement of cricket in late June or early July.

NCU move to freshen up competition in the Senior Leagues NCU move to freshen up competition in the Senior Leagues ( )

The NCU has asked clubs for their comments on proposals for the structure of the 2021 season by 8th May.

Basil McNamee Basil McNamee ( )

Ian Callender pays tribute to former Cricket Ireland president Basil McNamee who has died. He was 81.

Basil McNamee remembered Basil McNamee remembered ( )

Robin Walsh pays tribute to Dr Basil McNamee who died at the weekend.

NCU Professional XI NCU Professional XI ( )

During this 40-year period the NCU been blessed with some excellent overseas cricketers, many who represented their country at Test or ODI level. So apologies in advance if I have forgotten or not selected your favourite professional.

Rewind to 1991: When North Down broke Woodvale hearts Rewind to 1991: When North Down broke Woodvale hearts ( )

After a dramatic final which drained the supporters of both teams, North Down deservedly won the Touche Ross Cup with barely one hit separating the two sides after two days of glorious entertainment.

Patil emulates Sobers Patil emulates Sobers ( )

It's back to June 2012 and an Ulster Shield match at Sion Mills when Dundrum's overseas player/coach Raviraj Patil hit 6 sixes in an over in a competitive fixture.

Rankin excited by Lisburn challenge Rankin excited by Lisburn challenge ( )

Boyd Rankin has joined Lisburn for the 2020 season.

The death of Iain Warke The death of Iain Warke ( )

The death of former Woodvale captain Iain Warke has been announced.

Half a loaf better than none Half a loaf better than none ( )

The season is due to start on Saturday, April 25 but, as the country goes into lockdown, the Domestic Cricket Directorate have drawn up a schedule with a July 4 start date, giving them a 13-week season to conclude on the last weekend in September.

NCU looks at contingency options as coronavirus threatens cricket season NCU looks at contingency options as coronavirus threatens cricket season ( )

The Northern Cricket Union says it is exploring contingency options that would involve starting the club season late because of the coronavirus outbreak.

Call me Isma-eel Call me Isma-eel ( )

Instonians have signed South African Isma-eel Gafieldien as their overseas professional for the 2020 season.

Cameron-Dow to coach NCU Women's Team Cameron-Dow to coach NCU Women's Team ( )

Irish international James Cameron-Dow has been appointed as the Head Coach of the NCU Women's XI.

NCU winners at Ireland Awards NCU winners at Ireland Awards ( )

There was a quartet of success for the NCU at the annual Cricket Ireland Awards in Dublin.

Nigel Jones joins Dublin University Nigel Jones joins Dublin University ( )

CIYMS skipper Nigel Jones has signed a three year deal with Dublin University as their Director of Cricket.

Instonians switch on the cards for Poskitt? Instonians switch on the cards for Poskitt? ( )

Marcus Poskitt could be on his way to the NCU to pay for Premiership side Instonians.

Waringstown swoop for Malan Waringstown swoop for Malan ( )

Waringstown have moved quickly to sign Andre Malan as their overseas professional for the 2020 season after it emerged last week that their original selection Shadley von Shalkwyk wouldn't be coming.

Snyman makes his mark Snyman makes his mark ( )

Carrickfergus professional Jacques Snyman has caught the eye as he scored runs on each occasion he was asked to against the England tourists.

North Down complete Daniel Rose signing North Down complete Daniel Rose signing ( )

North Down have completed the signing of New Zealander Daniel Rose for the forthcoming campaign.

Warke signs for Woodvale Warke signs for Woodvale ( )

Promising teenager Harry Warke is following in the family tradition by moving to Woodvale, leaving Carrickfergus.

Snyman gets a second bite at England Snyman gets a second bite at England ( )

Carrick's Jacques Snyman has been named in the SA Invitation XI to face England in two warm-up matches prior to the ODI series.

Pienaar delight at Irish return Pienaar delight at Irish return ( )

Muckamore confirm signing of South African wicket-keeper batsman Peet Pienaar for the 2020 season.

Rose Northern bound? Rose Northern bound? ( )

There could be a new face on the NCU cricketing front with New Zealander Daniel Rose set to appear in the forthcoming campaign.

Ulster Plate draw completed Ulster Plate draw completed ( )

The draw has been made for the 2020 Ulster Plate competition, which has been dominated in recent years by NW sides.

Excellent NCU representation in youth squads Excellent NCU representation in youth squads ( )

29 players from the NCU region have been named in the various Irish youth squads.

Double boost for Lisburn Double boost for Lisburn ( )

The Wallace Park club have signed Josh Manley from Instonians and Chris Burns from Bangor.

Woodvale make two signings Woodvale make two signings ( )

Woodvale have confirmed the signings of Jack Burton from Carrickfergus and Kyle Walsh from Holywood.

Drumaness to merge with Belfast Superkings Drumaness to merge with Belfast Superkings ( )

Drumaness have announced that they are merging with Belfast Superkings for the 2020 season.