Downpatrick IIs advance to final

Downpatrick IIs advance to final

23 August 2023

DOWNPATRICK seconds advanced to the Minor Qualifying Cup final courtesy of a four-wicket victory over Ardent Blues thirds.

The Ardent Blues outfit started off with some wayward bowling being dispatched all over the Strangford Road ground, in a contest that had shortened boundaries after Storm Betty hit every cricket ground badly. 

However, fantastic work from the Downpatrick ground staff led by stalwarts Dale Mullan and Gavin Ringland meant the dreaded bowl out was avoided. 

Ardent raced to 100 in ten overs with some great shot making from Reneesh Hassanar, who scored 60 off 40 balls including five boundaries and three sixes, and Albin Thayil (41) who was also looking aggressive. 

However, the four wickets all fell to run outs with one coming from a superb run out from Downpatrick wicketkeeper Gireesh with the total 125 for two in 15 overs. 

Downpatrick really got back into the game with excellent bowling from Virenda Singh (five overs for 20 runs) and really tight bowling from Arun Kumar, who had four tidy overs for 25 runs. 

Meanwhile, Downpatrick’s Arnab Chattergee had five overs for 26 with Ardent Blues setting 192 for four, which was ultimately a good comeback from the home side. 

Downpatrick got off to a slow start, losing three wickets in 11 overs for only 49 runs with Arnab scoring 20. 

However, the next bit of ball striking was as good as what has been seen all year which had the home supporters believing that 144 runs in 14 overs was achievable. 

Downpatrick captain Gavin Ringland led by example with a superb innings of 73 not out in just 40 balls that included seven boundaries and four big sixes. 

He had great support from fit again Gireesh  Sudhakran, who scored 51 in 30 balls with four smashed sixes – a very talented all rounder.  

It was fitting that the skipper Gavin won the thrilling game with just five balls to spare. Match ball sponsor: The Corner Inn, Crossgar. 

Downpatrick will now face Ardent Blues’ second side in the final, which takes place this Saturday at Seapark, Hollywood Cricket Club, beginning at 12pm with all support welcome.