Academy cricketers mark 50 years as a club

Pride of place was given to three founding members, Tony Cole, David Dalzell and Geoff Simon, who were all members of the first team in 1965.

During the past 50 years the club has advanced through the junior ranks to their current position in Senior 1. During the past decade they have become Junior Cup specialists, winning the prestigious trophy on no fewer than six occasions.

Meanwhile, Academy Fourths are on course to complete back-to-back Junior League promotions.

Having been crowned Section 8 champions last season, Adam Wilson’s young guns are on course for promotion to Section 6, with only three fixtures remaining.

“We still have to play Civil Service, Saintfield and Armagh, and if we win two of them we will be going up to the higher level,” confirmed Wilson.

With the seniors match against Woodvale postponed on Saturday because the ground at The Castle was partially waterlogged, the spotlight was on the 4th XI, and they made the most of the opportunity by thrashing North Down IV by 10 wickets at Roughfort.

The visitors were limited to 91 for 8, with the successful bowlers being Niall Greenlees (2), Andy Bell (2) and one each for Andrew Martin, Luke Johnston and Ben Greenlees, while Martin was responsible for the run-out.

Martin confirmed his all-rounder credentials with 42 not out in an unbroken opening partnership of 92 with Ian Moffett, also 42 not out. Their next match will be on 22nd when they entertain CSNI IV.

Saturday’s fixtures: 1st XI v Lurgan, home; 2nd XI v Lurgan II, away; 3rd XI v Instonians IV, home.