July was an interesting month
Not too often are we front and centre in the news, but our little local drama has come and gone — and it’s back to cricket again, thank goodness.
A big highlight mid-month was once again entertaining the touring Pune Academy from India and enjoying the camaraderie (pictured above) that cricket so often provides. Moments like that remind us why we love the game, regardless of results.
The season has entered the home straight. Positive results have been hard to come by, but few would argue (some will!) that there are more grounds for optimism than anything else.
In a reversal of what many clubs face, our issue isn’t youth numbers but adults. Maybe we took our eye off the ball while building up the youth section, or maybe it’s unrelated, but our big challenge looking ahead to 2026 will be strengthening our adult stocks. Add that to the talented young players already involved and we can really charge ahead.
That’s down the line though. Right now, the task is to squeeze out a few more wins before the season’s end.
The 1st XI host the Lisburn galacticos at The Green on Saturday. Lisburn know only a win will keep their title hopes alive, but we’d love nothing more than to put a dent in that. It will be hard work with senior players missing and, man-for-man, we’re not at that level — but that is sport, you just never know. One thing is for sure: they’ll need every ounce of positive energy going. With West Indian international Jermaine Blackwood stepping in, and thanks to the individuals who took the initiative to make his signing happen, there’s at least some extra experience and firepower to back up a very youthful side.
Also on Saturday, the 3rd XI travel to Instonians, another young group looking to finish the season with spirit and energy.
On Sunday, the 2nd XI welcome Lisburn to The Green. Lisburn are pushing for the Junior 1 title while we’re fighting at the other end of the table, so it’s a tough assignment. But there are runs and wickets in the side, and what’s needed most is a joined-up performance.
The Ladies 1st XI are also in action on Sunday, away to Muckamore for their penultimate Premier League match. They’ll be keen to build momentum into the closing stretch.
It’s another demanding weekend across all teams. Results may or may not fall our way, but the effort and togetherness are there — and that deserves the right kind of backing.
So if you’re around, get down to The Green and support with positivity — that could make the difference.
