CSNI and Instonians will contest next month’s Challenge Cup final at Stormont after contrasting semi-final victories.

Holders Waringstown were dethroned by CSNI, who completed a composed four-wicket win in glorious sunshine. Waringstown made a promising start through Steve Stolk, whose 44 came from 34 balls, while James McCollum contributed 31 and Morgan Topping added 46. At 164 for four they appeared well placed to post a challenging total, but the dismissal of captain Greg Thompson for 28 triggered a dramatic collapse.

The last six wickets fell for just 21 runs as Waringstown were bowled out for 185. CSNI’s Irish internationals led the way, with Finn Lutton taking four wickets, Adam Leckey three and James West two.

The chase was measured rather than spectacular. Indian professional Ashwin Hebbar anchored the innings with 50 from 59 balls, while West, Leckey, Jordan Neill and captain Stuart Thompson all made useful contributions in the twenties. Waringstown struck often enough to retain interest, but CSNI stayed in control and reached their target in the 43rd over.

Instonians’ route to the final was far more explosive as they chased 247 in only 25.3 overs to beat CI by five wickets. Jake Egan had earlier made 94, with Chris Dougherty scoring 42 and Charlie Swart 45, but CI slipped from 225 for four to 246 all out. Veteran Andy White claimed three wickets, with James Magee and Cian Robertson taking two each.

Cade Carmichael then blasted 91 from 63 balls and Sully Gould hammered 78 from 38 in a second-wicket stand of 117. Shane Dadswell added 37 from 15 balls, including five sixes, as Instonians surged home. They will now attempt to end a 14-year Challenge Cup drought against CSNI at Stormont next month. The final promises an intriguing clash between CSNI’s discipline and Instonians’ formidable firepower.