After a rain-soaked opening weekend, cricket returns to Munster with a full slate of fixtures across all divisions. With conditions expected to be drier, teams will be eager to make their mark and get valuable early points on the board. Here’s what to look out for:
Saturday, April 26
🔹 UCC CC 1st XI vs County Kerry CC 2nd XI
🕥 10:30 AM | 📍 The Farm, Curraheen Road, Cork
MCU Division 1 – 45 Overs
UCC’s top side opens their campaign at home after last week’s washout. They’ll be keen to assert dominance early, but County Kerry’s 2nd XI are no pushovers—they’ll look to punch above their weight and spoil the party in Cork.
🔹 Midleton CC 1st XI vs Limerick Blasters CC 1st XI
🕚 11:00 AM | 📍 Townparks, Midleton
MCU Division 1 – 45 Overs
A tasty early-season clash sees Midleton’s firsts take on the explosive Limerick Blasters. Expect plenty of runs if conditions suit. The Blasters are known for aggressive stroke play, while Midleton will look to control proceedings with a more measured approach.
🔹 Clare CC 3rd XI vs Cork County CC 4th XI
🕚 11:00 AM | 📍 Ballycasey Clare Oval, Shannon
MCU Division 3B – 40 Overs
These two lower-division sides are all about nurturing fresh talent and gaining momentum. Clare’s home advantage could be key, but Cork County’s 4th XI are always dangerous with the bat, especially in the middle overs.
🔹 County Galway CC U15 XI vs Limerick CC U15 XI
🕛 12:00 PM | 📍 Lydican (MC), Galway
MCU U15 League – 30 Overs
A great showcase for the future of Munster cricket. County Galway’s young guns go up against a Limerick side known for sharp fielding and energetic play. Expect plenty of enthusiasm and the odd standout performance from rising stars.
Sunday, April 27
🔹 Nenagh CC 2nd XI vs Cork Harlequins CC 3rd XI
🕚 11:00 AM |📍 Knockshigowna Cricket Grounds, Nenagh
MCU Division 2A – 40 Overs
A fascinating Division 2A clash as Nenagh hosts Cork Harlequins. Both sides have depth and a mix of experience and youth. This could go down to the wire, especially if the wicket offers something for the bowlers.
🔹 United Cricket Clonmel 1st XI vs County Kerry CC 3rd XI
🕚 11:00 AM | 📍 Lisronagh Castle Grounds, Clonmel
MCU Division 2B – 40 Overs
Clonmel’s firsts will be aiming to set the tone at home with a solid all-round performance. Kerry’s third string, however, have caused upsets before and will be looking to spring another surprise in Tipperary.
🔹 Lismore CC 1st XI vs Midleton CC 2nd XI
🕚 11:00 AM | 📍 Castlelands Cricket Ground, Lismore
MCU Division 2B – 40 Overs
Midleton’s 2nd XI head to Lismore for what should be a competitive fixture. Both teams are searching for early season form, and with both batting lineups capable of quick scoring, this could be a high-scoring affair.
🔹 Clare CC 2nd XI vs Waterford & District CC 1st XI
🕚 11:00 AM | 📍 Ballycasey Clare Oval, Shannon
MCU Division 2B – 40 Overs
Waterford’s first team will be favourites on paper, but Clare’s second XI have the benefit of home turf and local support. If Clare’s bowlers can find their rhythm early, it could set up an exciting finish.
🔹 County Galway CC 1st XI vs Limerick CC 1st XI
🕚 11:00 AM | 📍 Lydican (MC), Galway
Munster Premier Shield – 40 Overs
The weekend closes with a Premier Shield cracker in Galway. Both first XIs are stacked with talent, and after last week’s washout, there’s extra motivation to start strong. Galway’s seamers will be tested against Limerick’s dynamic top order.
Weather permitting, it promises to be a thrilling weekend across Munster. Good luck to all teams—may the sun shine and the wickets tumble!
