🏏 MCU Weekend Match Previews | April 19–20, 2025
🎉 Opening Weekend – Let the Season Begin!
The Munster Cricket Union’s 2025 season kicks off with a bumper weekend of fixtures across the province. With clubs eager to set the tone early, and a brand new team entering the fold, excitement is at an all-time high. Here’s some match previews for the action-packed opening weekend:
đź“… Saturday, 19 April
🔥 Limerick Blasters CC 1st XI vs Cork County CC 2nd XI
đź•š 11:00 AM | đź“ŤCroker’s Oval, Ballyneety | 🏆 Division 1 – 45 Overs
The Blasters are back and hoping to explode into the season at home. Cork County’s second XI are always dangerous and experienced, making this a real tone-setter for Division 1. Expect a strong crowd at Croker’s Oval for this early heavyweight clash.
🔥 Nenagh CC 1st XI vs Midleton CC 1st XI
🕚 11:00 AM | 📍Knockshigowna Cricket Grounds, Nenagh | 🏆 Division 1 – 45 Overs
Two evenly matched sides who know each other well go head-to-head. Nenagh will be keen to assert dominance at home, but Midleton’s top order has the firepower to spoil the party. A cracking battle expected in the heart of Tipperary.
🆕 Waterford Vikings 1st XI vs Cork Harlequins CC 4th XI
🕚 11:00 AM | 📍Gracedieu West, Waterford | 🏆 Division 3A – 40 Overs
⚔️ WELCOME TO THE MCU – WATERFORD VIKINGS!
History will be made in Gracedieu West as the newly formed Waterford Vikings make their competitive debut in MCU Division 3A. Facing a seasoned Cork Harlequins 4th XI, the Vikings will look to bring a strong first showing to their home ground. All eyes on this one!
đź“… Sunday, 20 April
⚔️ Midleton CC 2nd XI vs Clare CC 2nd XI
🕚 11:00 AM | 📍Townparks, Midleton | 🏆 Division 2B – 40 Overs
Both sides will see this as a winnable fixture to launch their campaign. Midleton 2nd XI have depth, but Clare’s youth and energy can never be underestimated. A close encounter is on the cards in Townparks.
⚔️ United Cricket Clonmel 1st XI vs Lismore CC 1st XI
🕚 11:00 AM | 📍Lisronagh Castle Grounds, Clonmel | 🏆 Division 2B – 40 Overs
A picturesque setting and two passionate teams – this clash at Lisronagh Castle could produce fireworks. Clonmel will look to their seasoned bowlers to tame a talented Lismore batting line-up.
🏆 Limerick CC 1st XI vs Cork Harlequins CC 1st XI
🕛 12:00 PM | 📍The Manor Fields, Adare | 🏆 Munster Premier Shield – 40 Overs
A blockbuster Sunday showdown! The Premier Shield opener brings together two of the MCU’s elite outfits. Limerick CC’s consistency meets the flair of Cork Harlequins in what promises to be a top-quality, high-intensity clash. A must-watch for any cricket fan in the region!
🧒 Cork Harlequins U15 XI vs County Galway U15 XI
🕛 12:00 PM | 📍Farmers Cross, Cork | 🏆 MCU U15 League – 30 Overs
The stars of tomorrow get their season underway too. Development and fun are the name of the game, but don’t be surprised to see some serious talent on show in this youthful fixture.
The very best of luck to all teams competing in the opening round of fixtures, may the sun shine upon you!
