New cricket nets were installed by ‘Clubturf’ at Sandford Park School last month. The new two-bay structure will be of great benefit to pupils at the school who continue to make big strides within the schools leagues. Present to open the new nets were Ireland international George Dockrell along with past pupil and former Ireland captain Angus Dunlop. Dockrell bowled the first ball at the new facility to 2nd year student Nathan Johns. Another school to invest in new facilities this year are Wesley College who now have use of a three-bay practice facility. Also constructed just this week is a new two-bay net facility at Phoenix Cricket Club.
Playing numbers in secondary schools continues to grow with more teams now entering the schools leagues. Ardgillan School, Pipers Hill School, Newpark Comprehensive, St Gerard’s and East Glendalough all played in the leagues for the first time this year. Drimnagh Castle played their first game of cricket recently against St Andrew’s U’14’s while both De La Salle and Dundalk Grammar have been involved along with Colaiste Ris playing a series of games in Co Louth. Added to this cricket has been enjoying increased popularity at Ratoath College in Co Meath.