Ballyclare High reach Schools' Cup cricket final for first time in school's history
Ballyclare High’s 1st XI qualified for the final of the Ulster Schools’ Cup for the first time in the school’s history thanks to a semi-final win over Campbell College.
The players from the Rashee Road school enjoyed a five-wicket victory over their Belfast counterparts on June 7 to set up a final against RBAI.
Following the clash, hosted by Templepatrick Cricket Club, a spokespeson for Ballyclare High stated: “In the eyes of most observers Campbell started the game as strong favourites, but the
visitors were quickly on the back foot after an impressive start from the Ballyclare bowlers and fielders which saw Campbell reduced to 19 for four after seven overs.
"A final total of 118 all out represented a significant recovery from a poor start and left the result of the game in the balance.
"Ballyclare’s bowlers were consistently penetrative and economical and were ably supported by the fielders.
"A particular highlight was an outstanding caught and bowled dismissal by Jude Wilson, who finished with excellent figures of three for 14.
"Austin Adair (two for five), Evan Carlisle (two for 10) and Jacob Scarlett (two for 28) ensured that wickets fell regularly, while Cooper Donnelly took one for 33 and Jack Smyth only conceded ten runs from his three overs.
"The strong start required to the Ballyclare innings was provided by an opening partnership of 45 runs between Jack Smyth (26) and Jacob Scarlett. Finn Lutton’s innings of 35 runs (four fours, two sixes) continued the momentum of the Ballyclare reply, before it fell to Cooper Donnelly to hit the match-winning boundary. The date and venue for the final are still to be confirmed.”