A Munster Over-50s XI took to the field for the first time in a landmark occasion for veterans cricket in the province, producing an entertaining contest against Old Ignatians in Cork.

The historic fixture was watched by Munster Cricket Union President Jack Filen and Cricket Ireland President Bryan O’Donnell, adding further significance to a day which marked the beginning of a new chapter for the game in Munster.

The hosts made a sluggish start after being tied down by some accurate Old Ignatians seam bowling, before Joe O’Mahony provided the first real momentum with an aggressive 22, finding the boundary regularly through his favoured off side.

Dave Peet and Dean Wilson then lifted the tempo with an enterprising partnership, driving strongly and taking the aerial route when required. The pair retired after making 39 and 37 respectively before Merril Kahapola maintained the acceleration with a quickfire 27, including Munster’s only six.

That carried the home side to a competitive 163 from their 30 overs.

Munster made the perfect start with the ball, removing both Old Ignatians openers with just 11 on the board, but Dom Frawley immediately counter-attacked.

Frawley struck five fours and a six in a lively 37 before Ian Smith, with 23, and Bob Ducie, who made 34, kept the required rate manageable.

When both retired, Munster sensed an opportunity, but Phil Simmons produced the decisive assault.

With Ciaran Sharpe providing excellent support with an unbeaten 14, Simmons smashed six fours and two sixes in a match-winning 45 not out to complete the chase.

Despite defeat, the occasion was an undoubted success, bringing old friends, former team-mates and opponents together in whites for the first time in more than 15 years.

Cork Harlequins’ David Cooke hailed it as “a very successful day and beginning to the inaugural Veterans Cricket match in Cork enjoyed by Munster Cricket players and supporters.”

“We are delighted to be following Ireland and the other provinces in establishing over-50s cricket to play in interprovincials and abroad.”

For Munster, the result was secondary to a hugely encouraging first step for Over-50s cricket in the province.

Note: The Munster Cricket Union have yet to officially ratify the Munster Over 50's as an official representative side.