Averill powers Glendermott into National Cup final

Craig Averill produced a magnificent unbeaten 153 as Glendermott defeated Ardmore by 27 runs in a high-scoring National Cup semi-final at The Bleachgreen.

The Rectory side will now face Ballyspallen in next month’s decider, guaranteeing a first North West winner of the competition.

Glendermott posted 268 for seven from their 40 overs, with Averill dominating the innings after the early losses of openers Ben Mills and Blayde Capell.

His superb 122-ball knock contained 20 fours and four sixes and carried the visitors through several rebuilding partnerships.

The decisive acceleration came at the finish, with Glendermott plundering 60 runs from the final three overs after slipping to 206 for seven. That late assault transformed a competitive total into an imposing one.

Muhammad Edrees claimed five wickets for Ardmore, although the hosts will rue conceding 30 extras, including 23 wides.

Ardmore made a spirited attempt at the chase. Mark Chambers struck 46 before Aneesh Anilkumar launched a thrilling counter-attack, smashing 70 from only 44 balls with eight fours and three sixes.

Conor King added a rapid 27, but wickets continued to fall at crucial moments.

Harry Boyd claimed three wickets, while Alex Boyd, Alan Johnson and Lewis Pearson took two apiece as Ardmore were dismissed for 241 with almost four overs unused.

Glendermott’s explosive finish ultimately proved the difference and secured their place in an historic all-North West final at Clontarf on Saturday August 15th.