Limerick Blasters Cricket Club: A Story of Growth and Success
Formed in 2016, the Limerick Blasters Cricket Club, consisting of 60 members from across County Limerick, has grown from strength to strength within the Munster Cricket Union.
Starting with a small squad of just 15 members in a single division six years ago, the club now thrives in three separate Munster divisions, boasting over 50 active players showcasing their talents.
Their latest addition, the Limerick Blasters 3rd XI, achieved remarkable success in their debut year (2022), winning both the Division 4 League and T20 double. This accomplishment builds upon the club’s earlier triumphs, which include the Division 2 League and T20 double in 2018.
The momentum continued in 2023. The 3rd XI secured a promotion to Division 3 and went on to win the Division 3 League and T20 Cup double in their first year. Additionally, the Blasters achieved victory in the Division 2 League that same year, finishing runners-up in the T20 Cup.
2021 also saw the Blasters reach the Division 1 League and T20 Cup finals.
A Dream Realized: Croker’s Oval
However, the club’s most significant accomplishment to date is the construction and unveiling of their stunning new home ground, Croker’s Oval, situated in the heart of Ballyneety, Limerick, at Croker’s Farm.
The beautiful ground was officially inaugurated in May 2022 by former defense minister, Mr Willie O’Dea, Councillor Azad Talukder, and Senator Malcolm Byrne.
For the Blasters’ players, Croker’s Oval represents a dream come true, providing them with a permanent home ground. The club tirelessly saved and worked hard over the years to complete this project, having spent their first five seasons playing on various grounds. The Blasters express their deepest gratitude to Nenagh Cricket Club for allowing them to share the beautiful Ballyeghan ground for four years and to Galway CC for providing access to Lydican for one year.
Building a Home with Dedication
The picturesque pitch at Croker’s Oval is a testament to the incredible generosity of the Blasters’ players themselves, who collectively raised the significant funds required for its construction.
A special thank you goes to John Grieswood, the owner of Croker’s Farm, for his graciousness in hosting the club and his unwavering support. Additionally, the club extends its appreciation to DAP Tank Ltd and John Buss for installing the pitch, ensuring a balanced contest between bat and ball. The club also acknowledges Mike Bagnell’s leadership in the construction project and Nicky Grene’s dedication to maintaining the ground.
Leadership and Looking Forward
The remarkable achievements of the Blasters would not have been possible without the outstanding efforts and coordination of the Blasters Committee. This dedicated group comprises Chairman Saji Pulimalayil, Club Captains Shiju Chacko & Praveen Poulose, Secretary Thomas Raju (who was also elected as an executive member on the MCU board in 2024), Treasurer & PRO Lino Varghese, and Safeguarding Officer Paulson George.
The newest and perhaps most exciting development for the club is the launch of its kids’ cricket program. Partnering with Cricket Ireland and Munster Cricket, the Blasters will be hosting the Smash It program for children aged 5 to 9 years old this summer, aiming to develop and promote cricket for the next generation.
A Warm Welcome
The Limerick Blasters Cricket Club extends a warm welcome to all at the beautiful Croker’s Oval.
The objectives of the Club shall be to:
• Foster and promote the sport of cricket at all levels within the Club, the community and within the sport, providing opportunities for recreation, coaching and competition.
• Ensure that all members, playing and non-playing, abide by the Cricket Ireland Code of Conduct which incorporates the Code of Ethics and Good Practice.
• Always ensure that, the Club exemplifies the Spirit of Cricket.
• Encourage all members to participate fully in the activities of the Club.
• The Club is affiliated to Munster Cricket Union (MCU) and is responsible for the promotion of cricket in the province of Munster.
• To use Croker’s Oval, Ballyneety, Limerick as the home ground for hosting of matches, training and other activities in a safe, resourceful and enjoyable environment.
Contact Information:
Croker’s Oval Ballinagarde, Ballyneety, Co. Limerick V94Y793
