Start of new season at Millpark

The First XI’s first game is at home at Banford Green, and sees the Tullylish men welcome Saintfield, who have also come from down from Senior 1.

Senior 2 will be very competitive in 2012. Last year there was no promotion from the division, so joint champions from 2011 Academy, Laurelvale and Templepatrick remain, as well as the two sides relegated from Senior 1, and the five other teams.

The main addition to the 1st XI for this season is Charles McCrum. A former Ireland international, Charlie has played and been extremely successful at the highest level domestically for many years and is highly respected throughout the NCU. His experience and talent will be of great benefit to the club.

Millpark are also confident that player availability will improve this year. The First XI has a core of talented cricketers including Darrell Martin, Stephen Leckey and Aaron Robb, alongside club stalwarts from the McCart family.

Jason Maxwell, himself a much improved performer, is First XI captain for the first time in 2012, and is looking forward to the start of the campaign. Former captain Rob Hubert has returned from Cyprus and will add experience to the squad, and Andrew Woods is again available after a year out.

The club were due to get in some useful preparation for the season at last weekend’s Jubilee Cup, organised by Victoria CC, and also featuring Lurgan and Donaghcloney,

Unfortunately what was an extremely well organised one day tournament was disrupted by Irish cricket’s nemisis - the weather. Only bowl outs were possible on the day, but the club wish to thank Victoria CC for the invitation to play.

As always, spectators and visitors will be assured of a very warm welcome at Banford Green. Practices take place on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, and anyone interesting in playing is welcome to come along.