Bats off to O’Neills for Ulster Cup

Teams from the Northern and North West Cricket Unions across the province will be competing in 2014 and 2015 for the O’Neills Ulster Cup, Shield and Plate.

Kieran Kennedy, Managing Director of O’Neills, said of the sponsorship deal:

“It’s further evidence of our commitment to Irish cricket. We’ve an excellent working relationship with Cricket Ireland and our existing deal has been mutually beneficial to both parties.

“It’s fantastic that we’re able to help the sport at grass roots as well as international level, and fits in well with our business model, supporting local communities across Ireland.”

Dennis Cousins, Head of Commercial, Cricket Ireland speaking from the launch at the O’Neills factory in Strabane said: “We’re delighted to extend our partnership with O’Neills to include these very prestigious tournaments in Northern Ireland. Since we commenced our partnership with O’Neills in 2012, they have consistently surpassed our expectations on all levels. Tournament Director Roger Bell welcomed the new sponsorship boost saying: “I am delighted to welcome O’Neills as the new sponsors of the Ulster Cup, Shield, and Plate competitions. I look forward to working with them in 2014 and beyond.”

The first round of the O’Neills Ulster Cup takes place on Saturday May 31st, while the Ulster Plate starts on Sunday, June 1.

Defending Ulster Cup champions Coleraine travel to two times winners North Down. Instonians travel to Eglinton, Strabane are on the road to meet CIYMS, last year’s beaten finalists Waringstown host Fox Lodge, Ardmore host CSNI. Muckamore entertain Bready, while Brigade entertain Lisburn, while 2004 champions Donemana have been given a bye.