BRIGADE were crowned North-West Premiership champions after a four-wicket win over Ardmore at Beechgrove. 

The pressure was off Andy Britton’s side following the abandonment of challengers Donemana’s match at already relegated Eglinton, and they continued their winning streak with an efficient win. 

In a match reduced to 30 overs because of heavy rain, Ardmore posted 154 for nine thanks primarily to the efforts of skipper Harry Zimmermann, who hit seven fours and three sixes in a top score of 90 from 82 balls. 

Brigade were always in control of the chase, with Scott Macbeth hitting five fours and two maximums in a rapid 55, while there were 20’s too for Cameron Melly, James Smallwoods and Adam McDaid.  

Ardmore’s loss means they now face a promotion/relegation play-off against St Johnston for the remaining Premiership place in 2026. 

That’s because Strabane leapfrogged them with a three-wicket victory over Newbuildings in a 20-overs game. 

Ross Dougherty 36-ball 67 helped Newbuildings make 159 for eight, with runs too for Charlie Downey (35 not out) and Jason Dunn (23). 

Strabane took advantage of a new-look Newbuildings opening attack to have 50 on the board after just two overs – Subhan Shirzad clearing the ropes four times in a nine-ball 30. 

Aaron Gillespie continued the attack with a fine 52, but three wickets for Adam Allen and two for Jason Dunn swung the momentum back towards the hosts. 

With 22 needed from the last two overs, Vadivel Moorthy emerged the Strabane hero, hitting four sixes in an unbeaten 33 to ensure Strabane’s Premiership survival.  

The game at Sandel Lodge was abandoned in the 17th over with Bready on 54 for 2 against Coleraine- Ryan Clarke and David Rankin dismissed by Gareth Burns and Stephen Hutchinson respectively.