MCU Division 1 Match Report: Cork County CC 2nd XI vs. Cork Harlequins CC 2nd XI
Date: 2 May 2026 Venue: Farmers Cross, Cork Result: Cork Harlequins CC 2nd XI won by 2 wickets
In Week 3 of the MCU Division 1, Cork Harlequins CC 2nd XI secured a narrow two-wicket victory over Cork County CC 2nd XI in a closely contested 45-over encounter at Farmers Cross.
First Innings: Cork County CC 2nd XI
After winning the toss and electing to bowl, Cork Harlequins faced a strong opening stand from Cork County. Ishaan Singh Seehra led the way with a fluent 62 off 65 balls, including seven boundaries and two sixes. He was supported by Girish Khot, who anchored one end with 16 from 51 balls, as the pair took the score to 113 before the first wicket fell.
However, the dismissal of Seehra triggered a significant middle-order collapse. Umer Khan was the primary architect of the breakthrough, claiming three quick wickets including Gaurav Singh (0) and captain Arpit Ahuja (6). J Kalathera maintained exceptional control, finishing with figures of 2 for 20 from his 9 overs. Late contributions from Rajamouli Senthil Vanitha (23) and Ashwani Tomar (22) pushed the total to 211, though the innings ended abruptly with two run-outs in the final over.
Second Innings: Cork Harlequins CC 2nd XI
Chasing 212, Cork Harlequins relied on a disciplined collective effort. Opener Callum Stevenson provided a solid foundation with 41, while Jatin Jaitley contributed a patient 38 to steady the chase. Vikranth Masina added 22 before being run out by Assam Ishfaq.
Cork County remained in the contest through Gaurav Singh, who was the standout bowler with 3 for 28. He dismissed Jaitley, Isaac Whitaker, and stumped the dangerous Umer Khan, who had struck 33 off 26 balls. Despite Ayush Dubey claiming 2 for 28 to keep the pressure on, Manvinder Singh (11*) and Michael Higgins (3*) remained composed to guide the visitors home with 14 balls to spare. A significant factor in the chase was the 46 extras conceded by the bowling side, including 36 wides.
Hero of the Match: Umer Khan
Umer Khan is the hero of the match for his all-around contribution. His bowling spell of 3 for 31 broke the back of the Cork County top order, and his aggressive 33 runs at a strike rate of over 126 shifted the momentum back to Cork Harlequins during a tense period of the chase.
Summary Scores
- Cork County CC 2nd XI: 211 all out (45 overs)
- Ishaan Singh Seehra 62, Rajamouli Senthil Vanitha 23; Umer Khan 3-31, J Kalathera 2-20.
- Cork Harlequins CC 2nd XI: 212/8 (42.4 overs)
- Callum Stevenson 41, Jatin Jaitley 38, Umer Khan 33; Gaurav Singh 3-28, Ayush Dubey 2-28.
MCU Division 1 Match Report: Limerick CC 2nd XI vs. County Kerry CC 2nd XI
Date: 2 May 2026 Venue: The Manor Fields, Adare Result: Limerick CC 2nd XI won by 86 runs
Limerick CC 2nd XI secured a convincing victory in Week 3 of the MCU Division 1, defeating County Kerry CC 2nd XI by 86 runs at Adare. A disciplined batting performance and a clinical middle-over bowling spell proved to be the difference between the two sides.
First Innings: Limerick CC 2nd XI
Winning the toss and electing to bat, Limerick got off to a steady start. Sourabh Teke played the anchor role, scoring a well-crafted 61 off 72 balls. He found an able partner in Yash Srivastava, who contributed 23 as the pair put on 54 for the opening wicket.
Following the departure of the openers, Ayan Ullah (48) and Sumukh Venkatesh (30) consolidated the innings with a 77-run partnership for the fourth wicket, pushing the score toward a competitive total. Late cameos from Nishant Kumar (29) ensured Limerick reached a total of 245 before being bowled out in the 42nd over. Kamran Muhammad was the pick of the Kerry bowlers, taking 3 wickets, while Niyaz Safi and Luqman Kabir claimed two wickets apiece.
Second Innings: County Kerry CC 2nd XI
The County Kerry chase struggled to gain momentum early on. Despite a brisk 30 from Sohaib Asghar Chohan and 14 from Kamran Muhammad, the top order crumbled under pressure. Sarfraz Ramay was instrumental in this collapse, tearing through the middle order to finish with impressive figures. At one stage, Kerry slumped from 42/0 to a precarious 55/6.
A late-order resurgence provided some resistance, led by a defiant half-century from Luqman Kabir. Kabir struck 71 off just 53 balls, including five sixes, and shared a 58-run 10th-wicket stand with Sujal Kumar to frustrate the Limerick attack. However, the mountain was too high to climb, and Eshan Tanveer eventually dismissed Kabir in the 40th over to bowl Kerry out for 159. Waqas Mehmood and Yousaf Ramay also chipped in with vital wickets to secure the 86-run win.
Hero of the Match: Sarfraz Ramay
Sarfraz Ramay is the hero of the match for his devastating spell of bowling. His intervention completely derailed the County Kerry chase, claiming four crucial wickets (Adil Rahil, Qassim Mohammed, Sohaib Asghar Chohan, and Luqman Kabir in his first spell) to turn a promising start for the visitors into a match-winning advantage for Limerick. It was wonderful to see father and son (Sarfraz Ramay and son Yousaf) playing together in the same match- and taking 6 wickets between them!
Summary Scores
- Limerick CC 2nd XI: 245 all out (41.6 overs)
- Sourabh Teke 61, Ayan Ullah 48; Kamran Muhammad 3-38.
- County Kerry CC 2nd XI: 159 all out (39.3 overs)
- Luqman Kabir 71, Sohaib Asghar Chohan 30; Sarfraz Ramay 4-21.
MCU Division 1 Match Report: Midleton CC 2nd XI vs. Limerick Blasters CC 1st XI
Date: 2 May 2026 Venue: Townparks, Midleton Match Format: Reduced to 43 overs per side (Wet Outfield) Result: Midleton CC 2nd XI won by 95 runs
On a day where a wet outfield at Townparks forced a reduction in overs, Midleton CC 2nd XI produced a clinical performance to dismantle Limerick Blasters CC 1st XI by 95 runs. The match was defined by Midleton’s recovery with the bat and an strong bowling display that left the visitors with no answer.
First Innings: Midleton CC 2nd XI
After the Limerick Blasters won the toss and elected to bowl, Midleton initially struggled to find their footing. Early wickets from Jeffin Mathew and Regis Rex saw the top order falter, leaving the home side in a precarious position at 39/4.
The recovery was led by Jigar Vyas, who top-scored with a vital 45 off 69 balls. He was well-supported by Avinash Nagarajan (26), as the pair shared a gritty 50-run partnership that anchored the innings. Despite late wickets from Ajith A (3/21) and Jeffin Mathew (3/36), Midleton managed to reach 184 all out. The total was significantly bolstered by an 18-run penalty awarded against the Blasters in the 40th over for a slow over rate, a late twist that put the hosts firmly in the driving seat.
Second Innings: Limerick Blasters CC 1st XI
The Limerick Blasters’ chase got off to a disastrous start. Anunath Gopinathan Valsala was dismissed by Christian Laubscher on just the second ball of the innings, setting the tone for a difficult afternoon. Fivin Thomas (7) and George Raju (5) attempted to dig in, but the scoring was slow, with only 18 runs coming from the first 9 overs.
The introduction of Danish Iqbal turned the game into a rout. Iqbal tore through the heart of the Blasters lineup, claiming a magnificent five-wicket haul. Limerick Blasters collapsed to 32/6, and though Pavi Sankar played a lone hand with a defiant 30 (including a six and four boundaries), the result was never in doubt. Christian Laubscher (3/16) returned to clean up the tail, and Danish Iqbal fittingly took the final wicket to bowl the Blasters out for 89 in the 27th over.
Hero of the Match: Danish Iqbal
Danish Iqbal was the undisputed hero of the match. His figures of 5 wickets for 20 runs in just 6.4 overs completely broke the spirit of the Limerick Blasters’ middle order. His clinical accuracy ensured that Midleton secured a maximum-point victory.
Summary Scores
- Midleton CC 2nd XI: 184 all out (40.5 overs)
- Jigar Vyas 45, Avinash Nagarajan 26; Ajith A 3-21, Jeffin Mathew 3-36.
- Limerick Blasters CC 1st XI: 89 all out (26.4 overs)
- Pavi Sankar 30, Thomas Raju 12; Danish Iqbal 5-20, Christian Laubscher 3-16.
MCU Division 3 Match Report: United Cricket Clonmel 1st XI vs. Clare CC 4th XI
Date: 2 May 2026 Venue: Lisronagh Castle Grounds, Clonmel Result: United Cricket Clonmel 1st XI won by 122 runs (DLS Method)
United Cricket Clonmel 1st XI secured a dominant victory over Clare CC 4th XI at the Lisronagh Castle Grounds in a match where the home side’s top order set a platform that the visitors simply could not match. Despite an early end to the first innings and a revised target, Clonmel’s disciplined bowling ensured a comfortable Week 3 win.
First Innings: United Cricket Clonmel 1st XI
After Clare CC won the toss and elected to bowl, Clonmel openers Muhammad Arbaz Amjad Kushar and Shoaib Khan put on a masterclass in opening stands. The pair navigated the powerplay effectively, reaching 50 runs in just over nine overs. Kushar was particularly aggressive, striking four boundaries and three sixes on his way to a brilliant 87 off 71 balls. Shoaib Khan played a vital supporting role, anchoring the innings with 47 off 64 balls.
The opening partnership reached 145 before Gugs Singh (3/25) finally made the breakthrough, dismissing Kushar. This triggered a middle-order wobble as Raj More (2/30) and Farhan Javed struck quickly to remove Subeesh Velappan and Babar Ali. However, late contributions from Robin Raj (13) and Ahmad Qamar (9) pushed the total past 200. The innings was brought to a close after 38 overs with Clonmel at 214/8. Umer King finished as the most successful late-innings bowler for Clare, picking up 3/33.
Second Innings: Clare CC 4th XI
Chasing a revised DLS target of 224 from 38 overs, Clare CC never managed to get their chase off the ground. Ahmad Qamar and Shoaib Khan kept things incredibly tight early on, with Qamar removing Tejas Dagha for a duck in the fifth over. M Salman (17) and Kokab Rehman (4) attempted a recovery, but the Clare batters struggled against the mounting run rate and consistent pressure.
Babar Ali (2/13) and captain Sharan Narke (2/15) combined to dismantle the middle order, while Anand Thekkumcheril Jacob proved lethal in his spell, picking up 3/13, including two wickets in two balls in the 28th over. Farhan Javed (17) and Gugs Singh (8) provided minor resistance, but the tail was quickly polished off by Kapil Jawandha, who claimed the final two wickets to bowl Clare out for 101.
Hero of the Match: Muhammad Arbaz Amjad Kushar
The hero of the match was Muhammad Arbaz Amjad Kushar. His commanding 87 runs at the top of the order took the game away from Clare CC from the very first ball. By scoring at over a run-a-ball, he allowed the rest of the team to bat around him and ensured a total that was well beyond the reach of the opposition.
Summary Scores
- United Cricket Clonmel 1st XI: 214/8 (38 overs)
- Muhammad Arbaz Amjad Kushar 87, Shoaib Khan 47; Gugs Singh 3-25, Umer King 3-33.
- Clare CC 4th XI: 101 all out (30.5 overs)
- Farhan Javed 17, M Salman 17; Anand Thekkumcheril Jacob 3-13, Sharan Narke 2-15.
MCU Division 5 Match Report: Waterford Vikings 2nd XI vs. Midleton CC 4th XI
Date: 2 May 2026
Venue: Gracedieu West, Co. Waterford
Result: Waterford Vikings 2nd XI won by 23 runs
In a Week 3 encounter at Gracedieu West, Waterford Vikings 2nd XI secured a 23-run victory over Midleton CC 4th XI. The match was characterized by a significant individual performance with the bat for the hosts and a standout six-wicket haul for the visitors’ leading bowler.
First Innings: Waterford Vikings 2nd XI
After winning the toss and electing to bowl, Midleton CC 4th XI found immediate success through Nitin Patil. The opening bowler dismantled the Vikings top order early, reducing them to 32/4. John Mathew (2), Vishnu Vineesh (8), D Davis (0), and KAMAL OMANAKUTTAN (0) all fell within the first seven overs.
However, the Vikings’ innings was rescued by M Babu, who played a dominant role. Babu struck 82 runs off 70 deliveries, including 13 boundaries and one six, providing the vast majority of his side’s runs. While the middle and lower order struggled to contribute significantly—A Padayattil (9) and B Joseph (6) being the next highest scorers—the Vikings reached a total of 149. Nitin Patil finished with exceptional figures of 6 for 41 in 7 overs, while Md Jahangir Kabir Chowdhury supported well with 3 for 29.
Second Innings: Midleton CC 4th XI
Chasing 150 for victory, Midleton CC 4th XI struggled to maintain the required run rate against a disciplined Vikings bowling attack. Ajimon Joseph (9) and Ganapathy Paramasivam Muthukrishnan (12) provided a steady start, but wickets fell at regular intervals. Santosh Sarma Banda (4) and Mehul Dugar (16) attempted to build a platform, but the home side’s bowlers remained clinical.
The middle-order resistance came primarily from Md Jahangir Kabir Chowdhury (19) and Nitin Patil (18), who brought Midleton past the 100-run mark. However, the bowling quartet of B Joseph (2/26), Anoop A (2/29), D Davis (2/24), and particularly John Mathew, who claimed 3 for 22, proved too much for the visitors. The innings concluded in the 33rd over at 126 runs, giving the Vikings a hard-fought win.
Hero of the Match: M Babu
The hero of the match was M Babu. In an innings where no other teammate reached double figures, his score of 82 represented over 55% of the team’s total. His ability to anchor the innings and accelerate under pressure was the deciding factor in setting a defendable target.
Summary Scores
- Waterford Vikings 2nd XI: 149 all out (28 overs)
- M Babu 82, A Padayattil 9; Nitin Patil 6-41, Md Jahangir Kabir Chowdhury 3-29.
- Midleton CC 4th XI: 126 all out (32.5 overs)
- Md Jahangir Kabir Chowdhury 19, Nitin Patil 18; John Mathew 3-22, D Davis 2-24.
MCU Division 3 Match Report: County Kerry CC 3rd XI vs. Cork Harlequins CC 4th XI
Date: 2 May 2026 Venue: Oyster Oval, Tralee Result: County Kerry CC 3rd XI won by 79 runs
County Kerry CC 3rd XI utilized home advantage at the Oyster Oval to secure a convincing 79-run victory over Cork Harlequins CC 4th XI in their Week 3 fixture. A disciplined collective bowling performance from the Tralee-based side proved too much for the visitors’ batting lineup.
First Innings: County Kerry CC 3rd XI
After winning the toss and electing to bowl, Cork Harlequins made an immediate impact when Saravanan Kannan dismissed Sonu Sabu (0) in the first over. Stephen Jonnalagadda provided the most significant resistance for Kerry, scoring 26 runs off 39 balls, including three boundaries and a six. He was supported by steady contributions from Prince Thomas (15), Godwin Jebadas (17), and Shreyas Padmanabha Sharma Beedubail (14).
The Harlequins bowling attack remained persistent throughout the innings. Saravanan Kannan led the way with figures of 3/29, while Jon Russell was equally effective, claiming 3/27 across his eight overs. D Divakaran also chipped in with 2/19. Despite the wickets falling regularly, Kerry benefited significantly from 46 extras, allowing them to post a total of 155 all out in 36.1 overs. Congratulations to young Harlequins bowler Aryan Shah on his 4th XI debut!
Second Innings: Cork Harlequins CC 4th XI
The Harlequins’ chase struggled to gain momentum from the outset. Jithu Jayaprakash struck early to remove openers H Ahsan (3) and Eric Cotter (4). Captain Dave Peet attempted to anchor the innings with a patient 14 off 41 balls, but he found little support from the other end as the Kerry bowlers maintained a tight line and length.
Libin Philip was particularly economical, conceding just nine runs in six overs, while the wickets were shared across the attack. Jithu Jayaprakash (2/13), Devon Janjetich (2/10), and Godwin Jebadas (2/5) all claimed braces. The Harlequins were eventually dismissed for 76 in the 31st over, with extras (33) being the highest contributor to their final score.
Hero of the Match: Godwin Jebadas
While several players contributed to the victory, Godwin Jebadas is the hero of the match for his all-round impact. He provided essential runs in the lower-middle order (17 off 31 balls) to help Kerry reach a defendable total and followed up with a highly efficient bowling spell, taking 2 wickets for just 5 runs to stifle any hope of a Harlequins comeback.
Summary Scores
- County Kerry CC 3rd XI: 155 all out (36.1 overs)
- Stephen Jonnalagadda 26, Godwin Jebadas 17; Saravanan Kannan 3-29, Jon Russell 3-27.
- Cork Harlequins CC 4th XI: 76 all out (30.3 overs)
- Dave Peet 14, Saravanan Kannan 8; Godwin Jebadas 2-5, Devon Janjetich 2-10.
MCU Division 3 Match Report: Lismore CC 1st XI vs. Limerick Blasters CC 3rd XI
Date: 2 May 2026 Venue: Croker’s Oval, Ballyneety Result: Lismore CC 1st XI won by 34 runs
In a Week 3 encounter at Croker’s Oval, Lismore CC 1st XI successfully defended a total of 144 to secure a 34-run victory over Limerick Blasters CC 3rd XI. Despite rain delays and a strong bowling performance from the Blasters, the visitors’ bowling attack proved too disciplined for the home side’s batting lineup.
First Innings: Lismore CC 1st XI
After Limerick Blasters CC 3rd XI won the toss and elected to bowl, they made an early breakthrough by dismissing Manikandan N (2) in the first over. Lismore recovered through a 73-run second-wicket partnership between Jomy Kuriachan (33) and Vivek Thomas (27), which stabilized the innings through several short rain interruptions.
The Blasters fought back effectively in the middle overs. Ajeesh Kakkattusseril Prabhakaran (3/15), Arun Mohan (3/35), and Rony Arackal (3/29) shared nine wickets between them to restrict the visitors. Useful contributions from Sarathikumar Nagulsamy (19) and Guna Nanjappa (15) helped Lismore reach 144 before being bowled out in the 38th over.
Second Innings: Limerick Blasters CC 3rd XI
The Limerick Blasters chase struggled from the outset, losing four wickets for 34 runs during the initial powerplay. Jayamohan Kuruvilla spearheaded the Lismore defense, claiming three early wickets to dismantle the top order. Jibrin Augustine supported the attack with 2/34, leaving the Blasters reeling at 47/8.
A late-innings resistance was provided by Arun Mohan (22) and captain BD Philip (31), who added 48 runs for the ninth wicket to push the total past 100. However, the partnership was eventually broken when Guna Nanjappa bowled Mohan. G Nair (2/22) then claimed the final wicket of Philip in the 22nd over to bowl the home side out for 110.
Hero of the Match: Jayamohan Kuruvilla
The hero of the match was Jayamohan Kuruvilla. His opening spell was the decisive factor in the defense of a modest total. By taking 3 wickets for 24 runs in his 6 overs, he effectively neutralised the Blasters’ top order and ensured Lismore CC 1st XI remained in control of the second innings.
Summary Scores
- Lismore CC 1st XI: 144 all out (37.3 overs)
- Jomy Kuriachan 33, Vivek Thomas 27; Ajeesh Kakkattusseril Prabhakaran 3-15, Rony Arackal 3-29.
- Limerick Blasters CC 3rd XI: 110 all out (21.2 overs)
- BD Philip 31, Arun Mohan 22; Jayamohan Kuruvilla 3-24, Jibrin Augustine 2-34.
MCU Division 1 Match Report: Nenagh CC 1st XI vs. Clare CC 2nd XI
Date: 2 May 2026
Venue: Ballycasey Clare Oval, Shannon
Result: Nenagh CC 1st XI won by 132 runs
Nenagh CC 1st XI overcame a disastrous start to record a comprehensive 132-run victory over Clare CC 2nd XI at Ballycasey. A century-stand in the middle order followed by a clinical bowling performance ensured a dominant result for the visitors.
First Innings: Nenagh CC 1st XI
After Clare CC 2nd XI won the toss and elected to bowl, they immediately justified the decision. The Nenagh top order collapsed to 20/4 within six overs, with K Javed (2/14) and Z Udin (2/29) removing asif safin (0), Vimal John Mathai (13), Deekshith Gaddam (4), and Jomy Joseph (0) in quick succession.
The innings was rescued by a remarkable fifth-wicket partnership between Cinulal Varickatharappel and Tony Kurian. The pair added 124 runs, with both batters reaching individual half-centuries. Varickatharappel scored 52 off 85 balls (including 3 sixes), while Kurian contributed 57 off 80 balls. Gurpreet Singh eventually broke the stand, claiming both set batters. Late contributions from Naveen George (18) and Roshan Patel (16) pushed the Nenagh total to 194 all out in exactly 40 overs.
Second Innings: Clare CC 2nd XI
The Clare response never gained traction against a highly economical Nenagh attack. The hosts managed only 13 runs during the initial nine-over powerplay and lost Ahmad Khaleel (3) early to Jomy Joseph.
The introduction of Sreenivas Pockathara Maniappan proved decisive. He dismantled the Clare lineup, claiming six wickets and conceding just 22 runs in his 7.2 overs. V Mukundan (12) was the only Clare batter to reach double figures as the middle and lower order struggled to cope with the pressure. Naveen George provided excellent support with figures of 2/9 from five overs. The home side was eventually bowled out for 62 in the 26th over, falling well short of the target.
Hero of the Match: Sreenivas Pockathara Maniappan
The hero of the match was Sreenivas Pockathara Maniappan. His exceptional bowling performance of 6 for 22 turned a competitive chase into a comfortable victory for Nenagh CC. By taking the final three wickets for just seven runs, he ensured there was no possibility of a late-order recovery for Clare.
Summary Scores
- Nenagh CC 1st XI: 194 all out (40 overs)
- Tony Kurian 57, Cinulal Varickatharappel 52; K Javed 2-14, Z Udin 2-29, S Pannerselvam 2-30.
- Clare CC 2nd XI: 62 all out (25.2 overs)
- V Mukundan 12, Shafiq Bajwa 7; Sreenivas Pockathara Maniappan 6-22, Naveen George 2-9.
MCU Premier Match Report: County Kerry CC 1st XI vs. Limerick CC 1st XI
Date: 3 May 2026
Venue: Oyster Oval, Tralee
Result: County Kerry CC 1st XI won by 31 runs
In a Week 3 MCU Premier fixture at the Oyster Oval, County Kerry CC 1st XI secured a 31-run victory over Limerick CC 1st XI. Despite a middle-order collapse, Kerry’s total proved sufficient as their bowling attack consistently applied pressure to stifle the Limerick chase.
First Innings: County Kerry CC 1st XI
After winning the toss and electing to bat, County Kerry lost Mohsin Taj (13) early to Prasad Hegde. However, a substantial second-wicket partnership between Khuram Iqbal and Awais Saghir stabilized the innings. The pair added 101 runs, with Iqbal anchoring the side with a disciplined 51 off 78 balls. Saghir contributed a solid 39 before the partnership was broken by Parth Borghare.
Following the departure of the set batters at 121/2, Kerry suffered a significant collapse, losing their remaining eight wickets for just 50 runs. Anvesh Bogavelly (3/20) and Parth Borghare (3/33) were the primary architects of the damage, while Sumukh Venkatesh and Prasad Hegde provided effective support. Q Butt (21) provided a late cameo, but Kerry were eventually dismissed for 171 in 45.2 overs.
Second Innings: Limerick CC 1st XI
Limerick CC began their pursuit steadily, reaching 53 without loss during the 16th over. Nishant Kumar struck 31 off 49 balls, while Bharat Dahima made a patient 29 off 78 balls. However, once Y Ali broke the opening stand, the momentum shifted toward the home side.
Y Ali (3/34) removed the top order, including Kumar and Prasad Hegde (10), while Alam Morshed accounted for captain Anvesh Bogavelly (20). The most significant impact came from Mohsin Taj, whose clinical spell tore through the lower order. Taj claimed 4 wickets for just 20 runs across 9.2 overs, ensuring that no significant partnerships could form in the latter half of the innings. Limerick was eventually bowled out for 140 in the 44th over.
Hero of the Match: Mohsin Taj
The hero of the match was Mohsin Taj. While Khuram Iqbal laid the foundation with the bat, Taj’s bowling performance was the deciding factor in the game’s outcome. His ability to maintain a low economy rate (2.14) while taking four crucial wickets prevented Limerick from capitalizing on their steady start and ultimately secured the win for County Kerry.
Summary Scores
- County Kerry CC 1st XI: 171 all out (45.2 overs)
- Khuram Iqbal 51, Awais Saghir 39; Anvesh Bogavelly 3-20, Parth Borghare 3-33.
- Limerick CC 1st XI: 140 all out (43.2 overs)
- Nishant Kumar 31, Bharat Dahima 29; Mohsin Taj 4-20, Y Ali 3-34.
MCU Division 4 Match Report: Limerick Blasters CC 4th XI vs. United Cricket Clonmel 2nd XI
Date: 3 May 2026
Venue: Croker’s Oval, Ballyneety
Result: Match Tied
In a rare cricketing occurrence, MCU Division 4 teams Limerick Blasters CC 4th XI and United Cricket Clonmel 2nd XI played out a thrilling tie at Croker’s Oval. Both sides were dismissed for exactly 144 runs in a match defined by drama and disciplined spells from the spin and seam attacks.
First Innings: Limerick Blasters CC 4th XI
After winning the toss and electing to bowl, United Cricket Clonmel 2nd XI made immediate inroads. Kapil Jawandha (3/30) led a sharp opening attack that left the Blasters struggling at 25/4. Vishnu Chirayil Babu (0), Rohit Krishna (1), and S Marasseril (5) fell cheaply as the visitors took early control.
The Blasters innings was revived by a crucial 70-run partnership for the seventh wicket between Sreejith Raveendran and captain Sindo Puthur devassy. Raveendran top-scored with 42 off 49 balls, providing the necessary impetus to the scoreboard, while devassy (14) and Paulson George (19) offered vital support. Clonmel’s bowlers remained persistent, with Abimon Kizhakkethottam (2/19) proving difficult to score against. Supported by 51 extras, the Blasters reached 144 before being bowled out in the 39th over.
Second Innings: United Cricket Clonmel 2nd XI
The Clonmel chase began aggressively, reaching 41 runs within the first eight overs despite the early loss of Henry Michael (0). Robin Raj (26) and Kapil Jawandha (16) put the visitors in a strong position at 53/1 before a dramatic collapse changed the momentum.
JISHORE THOMAS JOHN turned the game in the Blasters’ favor with a superb spell of 4/17, tearing through the middle order and removing Libin Raj (7) and Abimon Kizhakkethottam (6). S Marasseril (3/26) added further pressure, leaving Clonmel reeling at 85/8. A gritty ninth-wicket stand between D Toms (18*) and Mohammad Imamuddin (11) brought the visitors within sight of victory. However, with the scores level at 144, Rohit Krishna (2/27) claimed the final wicket of Ashir Jehangir, resulting in a tie.
Hero of the Match: JISHORE THOMAS JOHN
The hero of the match was JISHORE THOMAS JOHN. His exceptional bowling figures of 4 for 17 in 8 overs, including two maidens, were instrumental in defending a modest total. His ability to strike consistently during the middle overs halted Clonmel’s momentum and ultimately ensured the Blasters walked away with a share of the points.
A special mention to Renny Abraham of United Cricket Clonmel, who, standing as umpire, gave the last two wickets of his team mates out LBW, a testament to the spirit in which Clonmel play their cricket. A tie was the fitting result for two teams who gave their all.
Summary Scores
- Limerick Blasters CC 4th XI: 144 all out (38.4 overs)
- Sreejith Raveendran 42, Paulson George 19; Kapil Jawandha 3-30, Abimon Kizhakkethottam 2-19.
- United Cricket Clonmel 2nd XI: 144 all out (32.4 overs)
- Robin Raj 26, D Toms 18*; JISHORE THOMAS JOHN 4-17, S Marasseril 3-26.
Women’s Super League Match Report: Lismore CC vs. Cork County CC
Date: 4 May 2026
Venue: The Mardyke, Cork
Result: Cork County CC Womens won by 10 wickets
In a Women’s Super League fixture held at The Mardyke, Cork County CC Womens produced a clinical performance to defeat Lismore CC Womens by 10 wickets. The match was defined by a disciplined bowling display from the hosts and a rapid, unbroken opening partnership that concluded the chase in less than seven overs. It was a significant day for Lismore CC, who fielded their first ever women’s side in MCU competition. Welcome Lismore!
First Innings: Lismore CC Womens
Winning the toss and electing to bat, Lismore CC Women struggled to find momentum against an economical Cork County attack. Vrushali Deshmukh top-scored for the visitors with a patient 13 off 45 balls, while Isabelle Bunyard contributed 10 runs to the total.
The Cork County bowlers maintained significant pressure, with Ciara Spalding and Suzanne Kamel both conceding just 4 runs from their respective three-over spells. Kamel (1/4) and Gunika Phogat (1/14) were the wicket-takers, while three run-outs—including that of captain S Donohoe (2)—further hindered the Lismore innings. The visitors concluded their 15 overs at 45/5.
Second Innings: Cork County CC Womens
The chase was handled with efficiency by the Cork County opening pair. Dhanuja Dhananjayan and Nargish Padaniya remained unbeaten to reach the target of 46 inside seven overs. Dhananjayan was particularly assertive, scoring 23 runs off 22 deliveries, including four boundaries and a six.
Padaniya supported well with 16 runs off 15 balls, striking three boundaries. The Lismore bowling attack, led by Isabelle Bunyard and L Byrne, was unable to find a breakthrough as Cork County reached 48/0 in just 6.5 overs to secure a comprehensive victory.
Hero of the Match: Dhanuja Dhananjayan
The hero of the match was Dhanuja Dhananjayan. Her aggressive unbeaten 23 ensured there were no complications in the chase, scoring at a strike rate of over 100% to lead her side to a swift 10-wicket win.
Summary Scores
- Lismore CC Womens: 45/5 (15 overs)
- Vrushali Deshmukh 13, Isabelle Bunyard 10; Suzanne Kamel 1-4, Gunika Phogat 1-14.
- Cork County CC Womens: 48/0 (6.5 overs)
- Dhanuja Dhananjayan 23*, Nargish Padaniya 16*; Vrushali Deshmukh 0-3.
MCU Premier Match Report: Cork Harlequins CC 1st XI vs. Clare CC 1st XI
Date: 4 May 2026
Venue: Farmers Cross, Cork
Result: Cork Harlequins CC 1st XI won by 33 runs
Cork Harlequins CC 1st XI secured a hard-fought 33-run victory over Clare CC 1st XI in a high-stakes MCU Premier encounter at Farmers Cross. Despite several middle-order recoveries from the visitors, a disciplined bowling performance led by Umer Khan ensured the hosts defended their total successfully.
First Innings: Cork Harlequins CC 1st XI
After being put into bat by Clare CC, Harlequins faced early trouble as K Javed (2/23) removed both openers, Callum Stevenson (1) and Mustak Mardan (3), within the first five overs. Shivam Kislay and captain Kieran O’Reilly initiated a recovery with a 57-run partnership for the fourth wicket. Kislay top-scored for the hosts with an aggressive 49 off 63 balls, including seven boundaries.
The momentum was maintained by Seanan Jones, who struck 43 off just 36 deliveries, supported by a quick-fire 21 from Umer Khan. For the visitors, Hrushikesh Pardeshi was the pick of the bowlers, claiming 3/36 in his 10 overs. W Ali and Zaheer U also contributed with two wickets each. Harlequins were eventually bowled out for 216 in the final over of their innings.
Second Innings: Clare CC 1st XI
The Clare chase began at a brisk pace, with Karthik Gajendra (22) and Vignesh (23) keeping the scoreboard moving. Ziauddin Khan provided the most significant resistance for the visitors, scoring 41 off 50 balls to keep the required run rate within reach. At 107/2, Clare appeared to be in a strong position before the Harlequins bowling attack triggered a collapse.
Umer Khan produced a match-winning spell, taking 4/33 and removing several key middle-order batters. He was well-supported by Kieran O’Reilly, who maintained exceptional control to finish with figures of 3/29 from his 10 overs. Despite a late unbeaten 17 from captain Mudassar Aziz, Clare struggled to build partnerships under pressure. Seanan Jones (2/39) took the final wicket in the 47th over, leaving the visitors 33 runs short of the target.
Hero of the Match: Umer Khan
The hero of the match was Umer Khan. After contributing a valuable 21 runs at a strike rate of 131.25 to bolster the Harlequins total, his four-wicket haul effectively dismantled the Clare middle order. His ability to take crucial wickets at a low economy rate (3.30) was the defining factor in the hosts’ victory.
Summary Scores
- Cork Harlequins CC 1st XI: 216 all out (49.2 overs)
- Shivam Kislay 49, Seanan Jones 43; Hrushikesh Pardeshi 3-36, K Javed 2-23.
- Clare CC 1st XI: 183 all out (46.3 overs)
Ziauddin Khan 41, Vignesh 23; Umer Khan 4-33, Kieran O’Reilly 3-29.
