CricketEurope: Waringstown

Angela Platt leaving NCU role Angela Platt leaving NCU role ( )

Angela Platt is to leave her role as General Manager of the NCU after more than four years at the helm.

End of Term feel to Premier League finale End of Term feel to Premier League finale ( )

The final weekend of NCU Premier matches had that ‘lets just get it over with’ feel about it and that was certainly reflected in some of the performances on display.

Cregagh secure promotion but just miss out on Title Cregagh secure promotion but just miss out on Title ( )

Cregagh secure their place in next season's Premier League but the Title goes to Cliftonville Academy on Nett Run Rate.

Cregagh to play in top flight Cregagh to play in top flight ( )

CREGAGH will play in the top division of the NCU next season for the first time in 46 years.

Nelson sails Waringstown to another win Nelson sails Waringstown to another win ( )

WARINGSTOWN were presented with the Premier League trophy before their penultimate game against Carrickfergus yesterday and they celebrated by winning their 12th match out of 13 this season.

Boultwood takes Cregagh to brink of title Boultwood takes Cregagh to brink of title ( )

Cregagh have the chance to gain promotion and the title going into their final match of the season today at home to Saintfield in their rearranged T20 fixture.

Runs galore in NCU Premiership Runs galore in NCU Premiership ( )

The bat dominated the ball in the penultimate round of NCU Premier matches with wins for Waringstown, North Down, Lisburn and Woodvale.

NCU Section One going down to the wire NCU Section One going down to the wire ( )

WARINGSTOWN are due to receive the Premier trophy ahead of their penultimate game against Carrickfergus and with no relegation, all eyes will be on Section One where the final promotion place will be decided.

Day 2 spoils shared but NCU claim series win Day 2 spoils shared but NCU claim series win ( )

The NCU and Jersey women's sides shared the spoils on Day 2 at Stormont with a Jersey win in the morning and an NCU win in the afternoon series decider.

Narrow win for NCU Women in T20 opener Narrow win for NCU Women in T20 opener ( )

The NCU Women's side held off a spirited chase by Jersey to claim victory by the smallest margin in the first match of their 3-match T20 series with Jersey Women.

Junior Cup on its way to Laurelvale Junior Cup on its way to Laurelvale ( )

Laurelvale claimed the Junior Cup defeating hosts Lisburn II by 7 wickets.

Waringstown Premiership champs Waringstown Premiership champs ( )

They won the title when only remaining challengers North Down lost their rearranged 20-over game to Woodvale at Ballygomartin Road.

Woodvale beat North Down to confirm Waringstown champions Woodvale beat North Down to confirm Waringstown champions ( )

Woodvale's 15-run win against North Down confirmed the NCU Premier title would be Waringstown's.

Section One goes down to the wire. Section One goes down to the wire. ( )

The result of next weekend's clash between Section One table toppers Cliftonville Academy and long time leaders Derriaghy won't be the end of the matter as Cregagh can keep the pressure on by winning at Muckamore.

Nelson and Hume take Waringstown one step closer to title Nelson and Hume take Waringstown one step closer to title ( )

A century from captain Lee Nelson and a hat-trick for Graham Hume were the highlights of Waringstown's dramatic 12-run win against rivals CIYMS.

Cameron Doak of Lisburn takes nine wickets Cameron Doak of Lisburn takes nine wickets ( )

Cameron Doak had a remarkable bowling feat for Lisburn Seconds in their game at Middle Road against their Carrickfergus counterparts.

All over bar the shouting for Waringstown All over bar the shouting for Waringstown ( )

IT looks like the race for the Premier League title is all over bar the shouting after Waringstown came through their toughest remaining challenge with a 12 runs victory over outgoing champions CIYMS.

Derriaghy keep promotion dream alive Derriaghy keep promotion dream alive ( )

Derriaghy ended a run of three consecutive defeats last night to keep alive their hopes of promotion to the Premier league.

Gone for a Burton Gone for a Burton ( )

Cliftonville Academy extended their lead at the top of the Section One table after a five wicket win over Armagh.

One small step for Malan, one giant leap for Waringstown One small step for Malan, one giant leap for Waringstown ( )

WARINGSTOWN took another giant leap towards the Premier League title last night with a 82 runs victory over basement side Lisburn in their rearranged game at The Lawn.

Waringstown edge closer to title Waringstown edge closer to title ( )

Waringstown moved a step closer to the Premier title after an emphatic 82-run win against Lisburn in their T20 refix at The Lawn.

CIYMS keep pressure on CIYMS keep pressure on ( )

CIYMS kept the pressure on Premier League leaders Waringstown with a 70 runs (DLS) victory over Carrickfergus yesterday, after Saturday’s four Premier League games were washed out.

CSNI Women on course for double CSNI Women on course for double ( )

CIVIL Service North remain on course for the Women’s Premier League and Challenge Cup double after completing the knock-out half of it yesterday in convincing fashion.

Waringstown and Lisburn to meet on Monday Waringstown and Lisburn to meet on Monday ( )

Waringstown will play their rearranged Premier League game against Lisburn On Monday night after The Lawn joined the long list of weather casualties on Saturday.

Waringstown in pole position for title Waringstown in pole position for title ( )

In the NCU, Waringstown are in pole position to win the Premier League title for the first time since 2017 after their win over second-place North Down last Sunday.

CSNI lift U13 league title CSNI lift U13 league title ( )

CSNI gained revenge for their Banoge Cup loss by beating close rivals Instonians by 30 runs to lift the Under 13 League crown.

Lucky 13 for Lisburn in Junior Cup final? Lucky 13 for Lisburn in Junior Cup final? ( )

LISBURN II will look to make it lucky 13 (wins) on Saturday when they host Laurelvale in the final of the Junior Cup.

Youth cup wins for Muckamore, Holywood and Lisburn Youth cup wins for Muckamore, Holywood and Lisburn ( )

A busy week of youth finals in the NCU continued with wins for Lisburn, Holywood and Muckamore in the U11, 13 and 15 League One finals.

Inst win Banoge Cup in thriller against CSNI Inst win Banoge Cup in thriller against CSNI ( )

Another day, another thriller, as Instonians once again got the better of fierce rivals CSNI in the final of the Banoge Cup at Queensway.

Inst beat CSNI in U15 League decider Inst beat CSNI in U15 League decider ( )

Instonians are the NCU Under 15 league champions after winning a thrilling decider against rivals CSNI at Stormont.

North Down beat Lurgan by 1 run to reach women's final North Down beat Lurgan by 1 run to reach women's final ( )

North Down held their nerve to beat Lurgan by one run in the semi-final of the NCU Women's Challenge Cup at Lurgan.

Waringstown two wins from NCU title Waringstown two wins from NCU title ( )

WARINGSTOWN could be just two wins away from lifting the Premier League title for the first time since 2017 after completing back to back wins at the weekend.

Waringstown move step closer to title Waringstown move step closer to title ( )

Waringstown opened up a 12-point lead in the Premiership title race after beating nearest rivals North Down by 25 runs at The Lawn in their rearranged T20 match.

Cregagh beat Derriaghy to open up title race Cregagh beat Derriaghy to open up title race ( )

The NCU Section One title race was blown wide open after Cregagh beat Derriaghy by six wickets to move just four points behind both the Queensway side and Cliftonville, who edged out Ballymena in a thriller.

Waringstown stay top after win at Woodvale Waringstown stay top after win at Woodvale ( )

Waringstown remain top of the Premiership after a 16-run (DLS) win against Woodvale, despite the best efforts of Ruhan Pretorius. CSNI too strong for Lisburn with runs for Stuart Thompson and Gary Wilson.

Waringstown beat spirited Woodvale Waringstown beat spirited Woodvale ( )

WARINGSTOWN can take a huge stride to the Premier League title with victory over second place North Down, after seeing off the spirited challenge of Woodvale.

Tried and trusted formula as CIYMS capture another cup Tried and trusted formula as CIYMS capture another cup ( )

CIYMS secured a fourth NCU Challenge Cup in six years after a relatively comfortable 127-run win against North Down at The Green.

Nigel Jones praise for ‘outstanding’ CIYMS as holders retain cup over North Down Nigel Jones praise for ‘outstanding’ CIYMS as holders retain cup over North Down ( )

A superb all-round display from captain Nigel Jones helped CIYMS successfully defend their Gallagher Challenge Cup crown with a dominant 127-run win over North Down at The Green.

CIYMS remain cup kings CIYMS remain cup kings ( )

CIYMS remain the cup kings in the NCU as they won the Gallagher Challenge Cup for the fourth time in six years with an emphatic 127 runs victory over North Down.

Carrickfergus outgunned Carrickfergus outgunned ( )

A Ruhan Pretorius spectacular ensured a comprehensive victory for Woodvale in the rearranged Premier League fixture at Ballygomartin Road

Can Chore deny CIYMS? Can Chore deny CIYMS? ( )

RARELY Is the build-up to a cup final about one player but the Gallagher Challenge Cup showdown between CIYMS and North Down at The Green could be decided by how long Aniruddha Chore bats.

Experienced Haire relishing Cup final showdown Experienced Haire relishing Cup final showdown ( )

NOTHING beats experience in a cup final and when North Down meet CIYMS in the Challenge Cup showdown on Friday, no-one will boast more final appearances than Ryan Haire.

Getkate haunts former club Getkate haunts former club ( )

SHANE Getkate returned to haunt his former club at Stormont as Instonians’ charge up the Premier League table continued.

CSNI Women beat Muckamore to reach final CSNI Women beat Muckamore to reach final ( )

CSNI have reached the NCU Women's Cup final after beating Muckamore by 11 runs in a tense semi-final at Stormont.

Waringstown meet North Down in top of the table clash Waringstown meet North Down in top of the table clash ( )

Ireland players selected for the Zimbabwe series will miss the last three weekends of the club season, which continues with a clash of the top two in the Premier League — Waringstown and North Down — at The Lawn.

Instonians and Woodvale IIs beat the rain Instonians and Woodvale IIs beat the rain ( )

Only one Premier League game beat the weather, Instonians claiming the points with a close four wicket DLS win over CSNI at Stormont while Woodvale Seconds lifted the Intermediate Cup beating CIYMS Thirds by six wickets.

Cregagh beat Donacloney Mill to win U11 Development Cup Cregagh beat Donacloney Mill to win U11 Development Cup ( )

Cregagh Under 11s won the NCU Development Cup by beating Donacloney Mill in the decider earlier this week.

NCU Women's Cup semi-final draw NCU Women's Cup semi-final draw ( )

The draw has been made for the semi-finals of the NCU Women's Cup.

No Chore for North Down as they beat Instonians to reach final No Chore for North Down as they beat Instonians to reach final ( )

Anniruddah Chore continued on his run scoring spree as his unbeaten 85 eased North Down into a Challenge Cup final showdown with CIYMS, after they beat Instonians by seven wickets.

Revenge sweet for North Down and CIYMS Revenge sweet for North Down and CIYMS ( )

IT has taken nine years but North Down finally gained revenge for their NCU Challenge Cup final defeat by Instonians, beating the Shaw’s Bridge side to reach this year’s showpiece on Friday week.

CIYMS outgun CSNI to reach Cup final CIYMS outgun CSNI to reach Cup final ( )

There are few sides better than CIYMS in Ireland when at full strength and that was the case at Stormont as the Belmont side overpowered CSNI in the Challenge Cup semi-final at Stormont.

Waringstown lead the way from North Down Waringstown lead the way from North Down ( )

Andre Malan scores another ton as Waringstown win again, North Down brush aside Carrickfergus, Woodvale beat Lisburn, while brilliant hundred from Ross Adair sees CSNI beat CIYMS.

‘Trouble at T’Mill’ for leaders Derriaghy ‘Trouble at T’Mill’ for leaders Derriaghy ( )

There was ‘Trouble at T’Mill’ for leaders Derriaghy, slumping to a 52 run defeat as chasers Cliftonville Academy and Cregagh both win convincingly.

Bragging rights for CSNI Bragging rights for CSNI ( )

CIVIL Service North take the bragging rights into today’s Challenge Cup semi-final against CIYMS after winning the league game between the teams at Belmont.

Instonians win Quoile Cup Instonians win Quoile Cup ( )

Instonians won the Quoile Cup on Friday night beating Holywood by 38 runs at Derriaghy.

Mayes hoping to fire North Down into final Mayes hoping to fire North Down into final ( )

Tom Mayes has hit the ground running since signing for North Down ahead of the 2021 season and he’s hoping to carry that form into tomorrow’s Challenge Cup semi-final against Instonians and beyond.

Young gun Robertson firing for Instonians Young gun Robertson firing for Instonians ( )

Cian Robertson may still only be 18 but he has been putting in performances beyond his years throughout this season.

Derby rivals up for the battle Derby rivals up for the battle ( )

BY Sunday night, CIYMS and Civil Service North will know each other very well but only one of them will be in the Challenge Cup final.

CSNI win Graham Cup CSNI win Graham Cup ( )

CSNI are the 2021 Graham Cup winners after an emphatic ten-wicket win against CIYMS in the decider at Stormont.

Chore proving signing of the season Chore proving signing of the season ( )

ANI Chore is proving to be the signing of the season, after he brought his runs tally in the last three innings to a remarkable 341 for once out and propelling North Down into second place in the Premier League.

Waringstown and North Down break clear of the pack Waringstown and North Down break clear of the pack ( )

WARINGSTOWN and North Down have stolen a march on the chasing pack in the League as it reached the halfway stage.

Waringstown, Instonians, North Down and CIYMS win Waringstown, Instonians, North Down and CIYMS win ( )

Another hundred for Chore as North Down win, while there are also victories for leaders Waringstown, Instonians and CIYMS.

CSN Women going for the double CSN Women going for the double ( )

CIVIL SERVICE North begin their pursuit of the Women’s Challenge Cup on Sunday and they are just four games away from a league and cup double.

CIYMS and Instonians hopeful of 2019 repeat CIYMS and Instonians hopeful of 2019 repeat ( )

HOLDERS CIYMS and Instonians were kept apart in yesterday’s semi-final draw for the Challenge Cup but both will have to win away to set up a repeat of the 2019 final.

NCU Challenge Cup draw made NCU Challenge Cup draw made ( )

The draw has been made for the semi-finals of the NCU Challenge Senior Cup and has thrown up two exciting contests.

No Surprises in Challenge Cup No Surprises in Challenge Cup ( )

There were no surprise winners in the Challenge Cup Quarter-Finals as both Section One sides fell by the wayside - emphatic wins in all four fixtures.

Hot, hot, hot in the NCU Hot, hot, hot in the NCU ( )

THE hottest day in Northern Ireland wasn’t the only record broken yesterday - Waringstown became the first team to post 400 in the NCU Premier League.

Waringstown put Carrick to the sword Waringstown put Carrick to the sword ( )

Waringstown score 420 to thump Carrick, while there are wins too for North Down, Instonians and CSNI.

Section One Roundup Section One Roundup ( )

Derriaghy come within eight runs of losing their unbeaten record at Armagh, as Ballymena move off the bottom.

Glass hits six sixes in final over to win T20 Trophy for Ballymena Glass hits six sixes in final over to win T20 Trophy for Ballymena ( )

John Glass channeled his inner Garfield Sobers to hit six sixes off the last over to win the NCU T20 Trophy for Ballymena against a shell-shocked Cregagh.

Ton up Greer a tonic for Templepatrick Ton up Greer a tonic for Templepatrick ( )

A century from Ricky Greer secured victory for Templepatrick at Armagh in Sunday's Section One fixture.

Snyman puts CSNI to the sword Snyman puts CSNI to the sword ( )

As South Africa face Ireland, there was a tasty sample of what the international players can expect on show at Stormont.

Section One Roundup Section One Roundup ( )

It’s as you were at the top of Section One, with Saintfield the only losers in the top six, Derriaghy, Cliftonville Academy and Cregagh hold station clear of the pack.

Carrick and Waringstown top the table Carrick and Waringstown top the table ( )

Three sides shared top spot in the table this morning, but tonight that’s down to two as North Down fell to a shock defeat at the hands of Woodvale while Carrick and Waringstown both won away to CSNI and Lisburn respectively.

Cregagh dreaming of cup glory Cregagh dreaming of cup glory ( )

CREGAGH have been given the best chance of preventing a clean sweep of Premier League sides reaching the semi-finals of the Challenge Cup with a home draw in the last eight.

NCU Challenge Cup draw NCU Challenge Cup draw ( )

The draw has been made for the quarter-finals of the NCU Challenge Cup with the ties set for the 18th of July.

Waringstown kicked out of Cup Waringstown kicked out of Cup ( )

WARINGSTOWN have been kicked out of the NCU Challenge Cup for playing an ineligible player in their victory against Derriaghy on Saturday.

Waringstown dumped out of Challenge Cup Waringstown dumped out of Challenge Cup ( )

Waringstown have been thrown out of the NCU Challenge Cup after the governing body ruled that Jonathan Bushe was ineligible, having not been registered by the correct date.

Lewis pips Hume for MOM Award Lewis pips Hume for MOM Award ( )

IT’S not often that a player scores 66 not out and takes six wickets and doesn’t receive man of the match but in a ‘home town/underdog’ decision, Craig Lewis received the award in their Cup defeat by Waringstown.

Sunday's Premier League roundup Sunday's Premier League roundup ( )

Instonians record their first win, Carrick bounce back after their Cup defeat, André Malan goes big against CIYMS and a wicketkeeping record for Chore?

Wilson century sets up Muckamore win Wilson century sets up Muckamore win ( )

A century by Ewan Wilson was the highlight of Muckamore's home win over fellow strugglers Bangor.

No shocks in NCU Senior Cup No shocks in NCU Senior Cup ( )

In the NCU Challenge Cup, the Premier League sides made short work of their Section One opponents.

Kerr leads Cooke Collegians to T20 Shield success Kerr leads Cooke Collegians to T20 Shield success ( )

A fine all-round performance from Man of the Match Paul Kerr saw Cooke Collegians claim the NCU T20 Shield after they beat Lurgan by 15 runs in the decider at Pirrie Park.

McCallan still top dog McCallan still top dog ( )

KYLE McCallan may be approaching his 46th birthday but the former Ireland captain is still one of the first names on the Waringstown team-sheet.

RBAI make it a clean sweep RBAI make it a clean sweep ( )

RBAI made it a clean sweep of the Schools Competitions with victory for the U15 XI in the Intermediate Cup

CIYMS remain the side to beat CIYMS remain the side to beat ( )

AN undefeated century by Chris Dougherty ensured CIYMS remain very much in the mix to defend their Premier League title when their inter-provincial stars return next month.

NCU Premier League round-up NCU Premier League round-up ( )

Wins for Waringstown, CIYMS, North Down and CSNI as Carrickfergus lose their unbeaten record at Belmont.

A tale of two Insts A tale of two Insts ( )

This was a Schools Cup Final like no other – and with no losers. RBAI’s name was on the cup as soon as the semi-finals had been decided.

Section One round-up Section One round-up ( )

Derriaghy are still the side to beat as they make it 9/9 with a win over Cliftonville Academy while Cregagh kept up the chase with a big win over Muckamore.

No surprises as Inst. wins the Cup No surprises as Inst. wins the Cup ( )

There was to be no giant killing act today at Osborne Park as the Inst. First XI dominated the Final to claim the Ulster Senior Schools' Cup by 211 runs.

Peak performance by RBAI Peak performance by RBAI ( )

AN historic Schools Cup final will take place at Osborne Park on Friday when RBAI meet RBAI 2nd XI after the senior side defeated Wallace High by 120 runs in yesterday’s second semi-final.

Inst. the Masters Inst. the Masters ( )

Friday's Schools' Cup Final will be an all Inst. affair as the First XI brushed aside the challenge of Wallace High School in the second semi-final.

Carrick top NCU Premier League Carrick top NCU Premier League ( )

CARRICKFERGUS are out on their own at the top of the Premier League, the only team to have won their first two games – and already they have shown their strength in depth.

It's as you were in NCU Section One It's as you were in NCU Section One ( )

No change at the top of the Section One table as the top four all win, Derriaghy extending their unbeaten run to eight with victory over Templepatrick.

Wins for North Down, Carrick, Lisburn and CSNI Wins for North Down, Carrick, Lisburn and CSNI ( )

Round-up of the Premier League where there were victories for Carrick, North Down, Lisburn and CSNI.

Second Team but not Second Best Second Team but not Second Best ( )

RBAI 2ndXI shocked Campbell College recording a 21 run win in today's Schools' Cup semi-final.

Ballymena reach T20 Trophy final Ballymena reach T20 Trophy final ( )

Ballymena will face Cregagh in the NCU T20 Trophy final after a thrilling four-run win against Muckamore at Moylena.

Campbell College reach Schools Cup semi-final Campbell College reach Schools Cup semi-final ( )

Half centuries from Oliver Topping and Zac Solomon propelled Campbell College into the semi-finals of the Schools Cup after a convincing 118-run win over Methodist College Belfast.

Cregagh first to claim T20 Trophy Final place Cregagh first to claim T20 Trophy Final place ( )

Cregagh defeated Saintfield for the second time in four days as they followed up their league success on Saturday with a 40 run victory in the first of the T20 Trophy semi-finals.

Waite takes Wallace into semi-finals Waite takes Wallace into semi-finals ( )

Michael Waite's superb 169 ensured Wallace High School reached the semi-finals of this year's Schools Cup as they ran out 244 run winners against Friends' School.

Magnificent Seven for Derriaghy Magnificent Seven for Derriaghy ( )

Jordan Wade's hard hitting 77 ensured another 250+ total for Derriaghy as they continued their unbeaten start to the Section One League campaign.

CIYMS start title defence with win CIYMS start title defence with win ( )

CIYMS may have been forced to start the season without two of their Ireland squad members but they still made a winning opening defence to the Premier League.

Bangor gone for a Burton Bangor gone for a Burton ( )

Max Burton's brilliant century ensured Cliftonville Academy progressed in the NCU Senior Challenge Cup, while Jamie Rogers starred as Armagh edged out Saintfield in the other preliminary round game.

Lee Nelson hails impact of Andre Malan Lee Nelson hails impact of Andre Malan ( )

The NCU Premier League returned with a bang on Saturday as over 2,000 runs were scored across four matches and three players registered centuries.

Carrick fire warning shot in Premier League opener Carrick fire warning shot in Premier League opener ( )

Carrickfergus have the first trophy of the season in their clubhouse and on the basis of yesterday’s opening game in the Premier League, they seem certain to be in contention over the longer format.

Derriaghy make it 6 out of 6 in Section One Derriaghy make it 6 out of 6 in Section One ( )

Derriaghy won the top of the table clash with Cregagh and move 8 points clear of their nearest rivals.

Runs galore in NCU Premier League Runs galore in NCU Premier League ( )

Carrickfergus continued the form which saw the win the T20 Cup last week with a convincing eight-wicket win against North Down in the Premier League.

Premiership cricket returns in Northern Ireland Premiership cricket returns in Northern Ireland ( )

The local season takes a huge step forward tomorrow with the return of the NCU Premier League and the North West Premiership.

MCC Northern Ireland week cancelled MCC Northern Ireland week cancelled ( )

The annual MCC week in Northern Ireland due to start next Tuesday has been cancelled.

Derriaghy stay top of Section One Derriaghy stay top of Section One ( )

Derriaghy continue to be the early pace setters in Section One as they beat the weather and challengers Saintfield by four runs.

Classy Carrick shine on big stage Classy Carrick shine on big stage ( )

THE big players enjoy the big stage and one of the players of the season, Jacques Snyman ensured that Carrickfergus won the Lagan Valley Steels T20 Cup.

Carrick beat CSNI in T20 final Carrick beat CSNI in T20 final ( )

Like two heavyweight boxers, Carrick and CSNI fought it out for the right to be crowned Lagan Valley Steels T20 champions.

Wonderful Wilson Wonderful Wilson ( )

A MEMORABLE innings by Civil Service North captain Gary Wilson maintained his side’s unbeaten start to the season and sends them into the Lagan Valley Steels T20 Cup final at the Lawn as favourites.

CSNI and Carrick to meet in T20 final CSNI and Carrick to meet in T20 final ( )

Civil Service North and Carrick will meet in the final of the Lagan Valley Steels T20 Cup after two pulsating semi-finals.

NCU T20 cup finals NCU T20 cup finals ( )

The first two trophies of the season will be handed out this weekend in the NCU with the big one on Sunday after the final of the Lagan Valley Steels T20 Cup at The Lawn.

T20 Trophy semi-finals taking shape T20 Trophy semi-finals taking shape ( )

Three of the semi-finalists in the T20 Trophy have been decided as Cregagh, Saintfield and Muckamore record victories.

Berry praises Lisburn progress Berry praises Lisburn progress ( )

After they followed their opening day victory against Waringstown by losing three consecutive matches, not many would have expected Lisburn to be finishing in the Twenty20 Cup top-four.

North Down and Waringstown miss out North Down and Waringstown miss out ( )

FOR the first time since 2010, neither North Down nor Waringstown will be in the NCU T20 Cup final.

NCU T20 Cup semi finalists confirmed NCU T20 Cup semi finalists confirmed ( )

Lisburn made the semi-finals as they edged out North Down in a low-scoring winner takes all match against North Down at Wallace Park.

Lisburn confirm T20 semi-final berth Lisburn confirm T20 semi-final berth ( )

LIisburn completed the semi-final line-up for the T20 Cup with a three wickets victory over North Down which was more comfortable than the margin would suggest.

Derriaghy move clear in Section One Derriaghy move clear in Section One ( )

Derriaghy win the battle of the table-toppers leaving Donacloney Mill, Cregagh, Saintfield and Cliftonville Academy all sharing second spot.

Muckamore into T20 Trophy semi-final Muckamore into T20 Trophy semi-final ( )

Muckamore are the first side into the semi-finals of the NCU T20 Trophy after a five wickets win against Cliftonville Academy at Moylena.

Carrick, Inst, Lisburn and CSNI win Carrick, Inst, Lisburn and CSNI win ( )

Jacques Snyman’s second century of the season ensures a T20 Cup semi-final berth for Carrickfergus after a five-run win over holders CIYMS at Belmont on Friday night.

Mulder back at CIYMS Mulder back at CIYMS ( )

Jacob Mulder is back at CIYMS having reversed his decision to go back permanently to his native Australia.

Busy weekend ahead in NCU Busy weekend ahead in NCU ( )

Ruhan Pretorius will be back in action in the first of all eight teams’ double-headers, tonight and tomorrow, to complete the group stages of the NCU T20 Cup.

Ian Callender on Saturday's NCU results Ian Callender on Saturday's NCU results ( )

Civil Service North remain the team to beat as they added the scalp of previously unbeaten Carrickfergus in the top of the table clash at Middle Road.

NCU Section One Roundup NCU Section One Roundup ( )

It’s a three-way tie at the top of the NCU Section One table after Derriaghy, Saintfeld, and Donacloney Mill all made it three wins from three.

Thrillers galore in NCU T20 Cup Thrillers galore in NCU T20 Cup ( )

Civil Service North top the table after their fourth win of the season. Wins too for CIYMS, Lisburn and Waringstown.

Matchett stars as CIYMS beat Lisburn Matchett stars as CIYMS beat Lisburn ( )

John Matchett took three wickets and scored an unbeaten half century as CIYMS thumped Lisburn by eight wickets in their T20 Cup clash at Wallace Park on Friday night.

Adam McDaid re-joins Muckamore Adam McDaid re-joins Muckamore ( )

Muckamore have re-signed batsman Adam McDaid from Ballyspallen.

Instonians come up smelling of Roses Instonians come up smelling of Roses ( )

Ben and James Rose helped Instonians to their first win of the season as they chased 127 to beat Woodvale by five wickets with nine balls to spare.

Rain affects T20 Cup in NCU Rain affects T20 Cup in NCU ( )

CIVIL Service North and Carrickfergus missed the chance to extend their advantage at the top of the T20 Cup last night when both matches were called off after yesterday’s rain.

Saintfield go marching on Saintfield go marching on ( )

Gareth Harrison slammed an unbeaten 72 to help Saintfield beat Cliftonville Academy by six wickets as they chased 134 to win with eight balls to spare.

Civil Service lead the way Civil Service lead the way ( )

CIVIL SERVICE NORTH lead the way in the Lagan Valley Steels T20 Cup, the only team to win their first three matches.

Saturday's NCU Section 1 Roundup Saturday's NCU Section 1 Roundup ( )

Donacloney Mill and Derriaghy both make it two out of two share top spot in Section One.

CSNI, Carrick, North Down and CIYMS win CSNI, Carrick, North Down and CIYMS win ( )

There were wins on Saturday in the LVS T20 Cup for CSNI who top the table, North Down, Carrickfergus and CIYMS.

Carrick and North Down crush Lisburn and Woodvale Carrick and North Down crush Lisburn and Woodvale ( )

Jacques Snyman’s brilliant 121 was the catalyst for a resounding 116-run win for Carrickfergus against Lisburn, while North Down trounced Woodvale by ten wickets.

Pretorius and Adey face old club Pretorius and Adey face old club ( )

THERE is more than a hint of irony that Woodvale’s first match of the season is at The Green in Comber tonight because lining up against North Down will be Ruhan Pretorius and Aditya Adey.

Cool Hand Luke fires CSNI to victory Cool Hand Luke fires CSNI to victory ( )

Luke Georgeson's unbeaten 75 propelled CSNI to victory over CIYMS in their LVS T20 clash at Stormont.

Five star Magee's efforts in vain Five star Magee's efforts in vain ( )

Instonians seamer James Magee's five wicket haul was in vain after torrential rain washed out their T20 clash with Waringstown between innings at The Lawn.

Mr Muckamore Mr Muckamore ( )

Muckamore have rewarded the outstanding service and contribution of John McCormick by naming one end of their ground in his honour.

Commins blow for CIYMS Commins blow for CIYMS ( )

Murray Commins cannot play for CIYMS after the Home Office confirmed what the NCU suspected; the South African has arrived in Northern Ireland, as a professional cricketer, with the wrong visa to play sport.

Gallagher boost for Women's game Gallagher boost for Women's game ( )

Men's and Women's Cup sponsor Gallagher have added their support to a new Women's Challenge Plate competition.

Visa troubles for Murray Commins Visa troubles for Murray Commins ( )

THERE are fears that CIYMS could be without their Irish-qualifying South African Murray Commins for the foreseeable future.

Tommo tanks Inst Tommo tanks Inst ( )

WHAT a start to the 2021 NCU season. Only two games in the Lagan Valley Steels Cup beat the weather but one produced a last ball finish and the other an outstanding innings.

Wins for Lisburn and CSNI Wins for Lisburn and CSNI ( )

Two matches managed to survive the weather in the NCU and it was Uptown Top Rankin for Lisburn who edged out Waringstown in a last ball thriller in the game of the day at The Lawn.

Muckamore and North Down win in Women's Premiership Muckamore and North Down win in Women's Premiership ( )

There was action in the NCU Women’s Premier League with two games getting played.

CIYMS waiting on green light for Commins CIYMS waiting on green light for Commins ( )

MURRAY Commins was still waiting last night to be given the go-ahead to play for CIYMS, after arriving in the country with the wrong visa.

Commins in limbo Commins in limbo ( )

It was late last night before CIYMS found out if Murray Commins, their Irish qualifying South African could not play in today’s Lagan Valley Steels T20 Cup match against Woodvale.

Rankin looking to fire on Warriors debut Rankin looking to fire on Warriors debut ( )

IT has been a strange winter for most people, sports people in particular, and for Boyd Rankin, the strangest ever.

NCU Preview 12: Bangor NCU Preview 12: Bangor ( )

2020 was a successful season for Bangor who collected the Robinson Services Bowl, and skipper Adam McCusker is confident after being given a second chance in Section One.

NCU Preview 10: Ballymena NCU Preview 10: Ballymena ( )

Ballymena have been boosted by the return of the experienced James Kennedy, while having Michael Glass join from Lisburn will further boost their batting.

NCU Preview 11: Cliftonville Academy NCU Preview 11: Cliftonville Academy ( )

After a strong end to the season in 2020, Cliftonville Academy go into the new campaign with genuine hopes of a promotion challenge.

Steenson steps down from Armagh captaincy Steenson steps down from Armagh captaincy ( )

After leading Armagh’s first team for six seasons and guiding them to two promotions, Matthew Steenson has announced he will step down as captain ahead of the 2021 campaign.

NCU Preview 9: Derriaghy NCU Preview 9: Derriaghy ( )

Derriaghy are expected to be among the major contenders for the Section One title and have added to their squad this season with Jordan Wade coming from Downpatrick.

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

Instonians have a settled look about them, and the club will use the 2021 season to bring more of their much vaunted young players into the senior set-up.

NCU Preview 7: CSNI NCU Preview 7: CSNI ( )

Four new faces arrive at Stormont, but that is offset by the loss of the experienced duo of James Kennedy and Graeme McCarter.

CIYMS again the team to beat CIYMS again the team to beat ( )

NCU Challenge Cup holders CIYMS will host Carrickfergus in the first round of the Gallagher Challenge Cup, which is due to return after a break of 22 months.

NCU Preview 6: Lisburn NCU Preview 6: Lisburn ( )

Adam Berry will once again be at the helm for the Wallace Park side, and he will be hoping that Boyd Rankin will finally get the opportunity to make his debut.

CIYMS to begin Challenge Cup defence against Carrick CIYMS to begin Challenge Cup defence against Carrick ( )

The draw for the NCU Challenge Cup, which will again be sponsored by Gallagher, has been released.

NCU Preview 5: Carrickfergus NCU Preview 5: Carrickfergus ( )

After a disappointing 2020, Carrickfergus have strengthened considerably with four quality additions to their squad for the current season.

NCU Preview 4: CIYMS NCU Preview 4: CIYMS ( )

The Belmont side have been the dominant force in NCU cricket in recent years and there's no doubt they will once again be the side to beat in 2021.

Pedal for Patto - 20 years ago Pedal for Patto - 20 years ago ( )

On the day that the Pedal4Patto cyclists are making their way around the cricket clubs of the NCU, it's a remarkable coincidence that almost 20 years ago to the day Andy Patterson and Kyle McCallan were doing battle on the cricket field.

Sponsorship boost for NCU Sponsorship boost for NCU ( )

On the day that the NCU confirmed they hope to start the 50-over season on June 12, Robinson Services have extended their sponsorship of the Premier League for another three years.

Rock boost for Carrick? Rock boost for Carrick? ( )

Neil Rock is believed to be considering a loan move to NCU side Carrickfergus ahead of the new season.

Tector to start season in NCU? Tector to start season in NCU? ( )

Northern Knights captain Harry Tector is believed to be considering starting the domestic season in the NCU.

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

It's been a busy close season at Comber, with major signings and also high profile departures.

T20 to get NCU up and running T20 to get NCU up and running ( )

The NCU season will get under way on May 8th with Lagan Valley Steels T20 action across the board.

NCU plans falling into place NCU plans falling into place ( )

NCU Premier League fixtures have been revealed as Robinson Services renew their sponsorship.

NCU Preview 2: Waringstown NCU Preview 2: Waringstown ( )

Waringstown will have to cope without the services of their all-time leading run scorer James Hall for the 2021 season, but they have two top quality signings that will be boost their all-round strength and depth.

NCU Preview 1: Woodvale NCU Preview 1: Woodvale ( )

We start our preview of the NCU clubs with a look at Woodvale, who have been busy as the new season approaches.

No spectators allowed for cricket restart No spectators allowed for cricket restart ( )

The Northern Cricket Union and North West have both confirmed their seasons will start two weeks today, on Saturday May 8, with their Twenty20 competitions.

Season to start on May 8th Season to start on May 8th ( )

The local season is expected to get under way in both the NCU and NW on Saturday May 8th.

Foster impresses against Derbyshire Foster impresses against Derbyshire ( )

CSNI seamer Matthew Foster turned in an impressive display for Cardiff UCCE against Derbyshire in their drawn three-day match.

Bob Matier remembered Bob Matier remembered ( )

Following the death of former Woodvale and Irish international Bob Matier earlier this week, we publish an interview he did with David Scott.

Jeff's Ashes: 50 not out Jeff's Ashes: 50 not out ( )

50 years' service to his beloved Dundrum in the NCU. Jeff Maguire is bowing out with the club never in a better position.

Cameron-Dow takes coaching role at Instonians Cameron-Dow takes coaching role at Instonians ( )

James Cameron-Dow has been appointed Director of Youth cricket at Instonians.

No Más Para CIYMS No Más Para CIYMS ( )

Lo siento mucho, no cricket trip to Spain for CIYMS this June.

Surrey Loam situation resolved Surrey Loam situation resolved ( )

A potential problem for Northern Ireland clubs regarding the importation of Surrey Loam from GB has been resolved.

Houston named Official of the Year Houston named Official of the Year ( )

The ever popular Ian Houston's contribution to cricket was recognised as he picked up the Official of the Year Award.

North Down and Newbuildings up for team award North Down and Newbuildings up for team award ( )

NORTH Down and Newbuildings have been nominated by their provincial unions for the Cricket Ireland Club of the Year, which will be announced on Friday night at the annual awards ceremony.

Donating blood for the cause Donating blood for the cause ( )

Back in 20008, the NCU Senior Challenge Cup final was a tough battle, with CSNI wicket-keeper Rob Arthur giving his all in a tense, low scoring affair.

Death of Andrew Steven Death of Andrew Steven ( )

One of the most recognizable faces of NCU cricket, Andrew Steven died recently.

Johnston gets ECB Level Four Coaching Award Johnston gets ECB Level Four Coaching Award ( )

Northern Knights Head Coach Simon Johnston has been awarded his Level Four Coaching Certificate by the ECB.

NCU plans await Executive roadmap NCU plans await Executive roadmap ( )

The Northern Cricket Union are planning for a full season this summer but are waiting for a roadmap out of the lockdown before confirming the schedule.

Saintfield at the double Saintfield at the double ( )

Saintfield have announced the return of Ryan Smyth and Mark Yeates to the club for the 2021 season.

North Down unveil trio of signings North Down unveil trio of signings ( )

North Down have signed three players for the 2021 season, with Sri Lankan Gayan Maneeshan getting the overseas player slot.