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150th Anniversary Brochure

Friday, November 1st, 2024

A Century and a Half of Cricket at the Mardyke 

Cork County Cricket Club, a cornerstone of cricket on Leeside and the Munster region, is celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2024. To mark this historic milestone, the club has released a commemorative brochure that delves into its rich history, showcasing the club’s journey from its humble beginnings in 1874 to its current status as a thriving cricketing hub.

A Glimpse into the Past

The brochure takes readers on a nostalgic journey through the club’s illustrious past from its formation in 1874 right up through the highs and lows of 150 years of cricket at the Mardyke. From the early days of cricket in Cork to the modern era of international cricket, the club has played a significant role in shaping the landscape of Irish cricket.

Cricket was first played on the Mardyke in 1850, and by 1874, Cork County Cricket Club was born. In 1903, cricket legend W.G. Grace famously played at the Mardyke, cementing our place in the sport’s history.

Both World Wars had a profound impact on Cork County. During these periods, the club sustained itself through local matches, building a resilient community spirit that kept the sport alive at the Mardyke.

The post-war years were a golden age for Cork County. Renowned teams from the UK and Ireland regularly visited, and we saw the rise of talented local players who made their mark in Munster and Irish cricket.

1970s to the present day

The 1970s and 80s are remembered as a Golden Age for Cork County, with top-tier teams from across the UK and Ireland regularly visiting the Mardyke. Alongside hosting international stars, the club nurtured local talent who went on to represent Munster, Irish Universities, and even the national team. This era laid the foundation for a thriving youth program, ensuring that the club would continue to grow.

As the 1990s progressed, all the hard work from club legend Dermot Giltinan was beginning to bear fruit. The club entered a highly successful phase which has extended to this day. John Power won his first Irish cap and others achieved recognition at representative levels.

A chap called John Stephenson had been to the Mardyke with Surridge Grant in 1989, and liked it so much he brought his stag party over in September 1994. We had a wonderful game against them in front of a large crowd who came to see Graham Gooch, Nasser Hussain, Derek Pringle, Nick Knight and James Whitaker, who scored a fabulous hundred.

More recently the club has endured the devastation of the flooding in November 2009 which caused significant damage to the long room, squash courts, dressing rooms, and even the bar sustained catastrophic damage, adding insult to injury after the major renovations were completed just a few years prior.

In August 2002, the Mardyke hosted its final full Men’s International fixture between Ireland and the MCC which underlined the Mardyke’s ability to host high-profile international matches. More recently, the club plays host to the Munster Reds with IP50 and IP20 fixtures regularly throughout the summer months.

Cork County re-entered the Leinster League in 2010 having previously played in the competition in the late 1990’s. Since those early days, honours achieved include the Leinster Division 3 title in 2013 and the Leinster Division 2 title in 2016 which also cumulated with honour of the Cricket Ireland Club of the Year. In 2025, the club will compete in the restructured Leinster Premier League.

The pages are filled with many more captivating stories and images of legendary players, memorable matches, and significant milestones that have defined the club’s identity.

A Celebration of the Present

The brochure also highlights the club’s current standing as a vibrant and inclusive sporting organisation. With a thriving membership, a strong focus on youth development, and a commitment to women’s cricket, Cork County CC is ensuring a bright future for the sport in the region.

Own a Piece of History

Over the years, Cork County has been home to players who have represented Munster, Ireland, and international youth teams. Today, we celebrate our 150-year legacy with an eye on the future, inspired by the generations of players, supporters, and volunteers who have made our club what it is.

To learn more about these storied moments, cherished memories, and our vision for the future, pick up our 150th Anniversary Brochure.

To order your copy:

Brochures are available to order online to either collect in the clubhouse or postage throughout Ireland by visiting https://bit.ly/cccc-ticket-sales

Alternatively, you can contact the club at info@corkcountycricketclub.com

Don’t miss this opportunity to own a piece of Cork County Cricket Club’s history.

Triumphant Sweep at 2023 Munster Cricket Awards

Wednesday, November 22nd, 2023

Cork County Clinches 20 Player & Team Honours

Cork County Cricket Club emerged with an impressive haul of 20 awards across various divisions and age groups at the prestigious 2023 Munster Cricket Awards. The club’s unparalleled success was celebrated at the ceremony which took place at the Charleville Park Hotel, highlighting both team and individual achievements.

Team Awards

  • Premier Division Champions – Cork County 1
  • Premier T20 Champions – Cork County 1
  • Division 1 Champions – Cork County 2
  • Division 2 T20 Champions – Cork County 3
  • Division 3 T20 Champions – Cork County 4
  • U13 T20 League Champions – Cork County U13 Sharks
  • U13 Super League Champions – Cork County U13
  • U17 T20 League Champions – Cork County U17
  • Munster Team of 2023 – Cork County 1

Individual Awards

  • Premier T20 Batter of 2023 – Stefano Di Bartolomeo
  • Premier T20 Bowler of 2023 – Hamdullah Safi
  • Division 2 Batter of 2023 – Ishaan Singh Seehra
  • Division 2 T20 Batter of 2023 – Ishaan Singh Seehra
  • Division 3 Batter of 2023 – Rahul Sethi
  • Division 3 T20 Batter of 2023 – Prateek Chappanda
  • U17 Leagues Batter of 2023 – Niall Donnelly
  • U15 Female Player of 2023 – Ciara Spalding
  • U13 Leagues Batter of 2023 – Hashim Bilal Ahsan
  • U13 Leagues Bowler of 2023 – Elmond Momand
  • U13 Player of 2023 – Eddie Ross

The club’s dedication to fostering a vibrant cricketing community, where individuals of all ages and abilities can excel, has once again been recognised, with 11 individual and team award recipients across both adult and youth levels.

Congratulations to all the winners for their outstanding contributions to Cork County Cricket Club’s phenomenal success in 2023. Here’s to more triumphs and cricketing excellence during our 150th anniversary season in 2024!

U13 and U17 Achievements Shine Bright

Wednesday, October 4th, 2023

Youth cricket in Cork County has never been more vibrant, and the recent awards ceremony was a testament to the talent and dedication of our young cricketers. Under the warm embrace of the sun, Cork County Cricket Club celebrated the remarkable achievements of its U13 and U17 squads in the 2023 Munster Cricket competitions. The event not only marked a glorious moment for the players but also highlighted the club’s commitment to nurturing young cricketing talent.

Behind every successful youth program, there is a dedicated team that works tirelessly to ensure the players have the best possible experience. The Youth Committee of Cork County Cricket Club played a pivotal role in organizing the awards ceremony and supporting the young cricketers throughout their journey. Their commitment to fostering talent and providing a nurturing environment deserves special recognition.

The U13 and U17 squads of Cork County Cricket Club have been on an outstanding journey throughout the season, showcasing their skills, determination, and passion for the game. Their hard work resulted in more silverware:

  • U13 T20 Cup
  • U13 Super League
  • U17 T20 Cup

The awards ceremony was graced by the presence of Jack Filen, the President of Munster Cricket. His attendance not only added prestige to the event but also showed Munster Cricket’s unwavering support for youth cricket development. Mr. Filen’s words of encouragement and praise motivated the young cricketers and instilled a sense of pride in their accomplishments.

No celebration is complete without delicious treats, and the young cricketers were in for a delightful surprise thanks to Lavish Foods. The generous contribution of Lavish Foods added flavour to the event, and their tasty treats were enjoyed by everyone in attendance.

Cork County Cricket Club looks forward to continued success and growth in youth cricket, driven by the enthusiasm and passion of these remarkable young players.

Cork County’s Quest for Historic Treble

Wednesday, September 20th, 2023

As Cork County Cricket Club gears up for the Munster Senior Cup final against County Kerry Cricket Club, they have their sights set on achieving a remarkable treble this season. Already crowned champions in the Senior T20 Blast and Premier Division, Cork County now aims to add the Senior Cup to these.

The prospect of securing the treble is a testament to the talent and hard work of the Cork County squad who juggle both Munster and Leinster commitments. Their performances in the Senior T20 Blast and Premier Division have been consistent throughout, earning them well-deserved titles and recognition in the Munster cricket scene.

Now, with the Senior Cup final on the horizon, Cork County has the opportunity to cap off an extraordinary season with another significant achievement. Winning the Senior Cup would not only solidify a dominant season in Munster but also add a historic chapter to their storied legacy in the competition.

Since the inception of the Senior T20 Blast in 2016, the Munster Senior treble has been a rare and coveted feat, and achieving it would be a source of immense pride for Cork County Cricket Club who has achieved the accolade on two previous occasions in 2017 and 2019. It’s a testament to their commitment and determination, and it reflects the strong cricketing culture and tradition within the club.

If the weather permits, the Senior Cup final promises to be a thrilling encounter, with County facing a Kerry side buoyed by the addition of Monil Patel to their ranks and following victories at the Quarter and Semi-Final stages against Harlequins and Limerick, respectively. The Mardyke will be buzzing with excitement, and spectators can expect a fiercely competitive match as these two talented sides take the field.

A victory would mean a first Senior Cup title for the club in the 2020s following the two gap due to Covid and since their last victory in 2019. The club has won 20 Senior Cup titles since 1987 and won six in a row during the 2001 to 2006 period.

2023 Munster Senior Cup Final

Sunday, 24th September, at the Mardyke (11.30am)

Remembering Jim Fitzgerald RIP

Tuesday, July 25th, 2023

Cork County Cricket Club mourns the loss of former player & club captain, James “Jim” Fitzgerald, who passed away recently. Jim’s contributions to the club have left an indelible mark on its history and the hearts of its members.

Jim Fitzgerald captaining the Bohemians Cricket Club at the Mardyke in Cork
Jim Fitzgerald captaining the Bohemians side at the Mardyke in Cork

A stalwart of the Cork County family, Jim served as Club President in both 1982 and 1983, guiding the club through important milestones during the early 80s. His leadership and passion for the game inspired countless players and supporters alike.

However, Jim’s legacy stretches back even further. In 1965, he proudly captained the club, displaying exceptional skills on the field and nurturing a sense of camaraderie among his teammates. He was a true embodiment of the club’s values, and his dedication to the game and its community was evident in every match.

Jim Fitzgerald and Jim Kiernan pictured at a recent annual awards dinner

Throughout the years, Jim remained a familiar face on matchdays at the Mardyke grounds. As we bid farewell to this remarkable individual, we remember the countless memories he created, the friendships he forged, and the passion he instilled in generations of players. Jim Fitzgerald’s legacy will live on in the heart of Cork County Cricket Club.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.

2023 1st XI Season Preview

Friday, April 21st, 2023

As the 2023 cricket season approaches, Cork County prepares for an exciting and challenging campaign under the leadership of its new club captain, Abubakar Saddique, who takes the reins from Ross Durity. With a wealth of experience gained at both club and interprovincial levels, Saddique will look to lead from the front with bat and ball, having taken 142 wickets at 19.7 in Leinster competition.

Abubakar Saddique - Cork County Cricket Club

Joining the squad as the club’s overseas player is South African Stefano di Bartolomeo, a seam bowling all-rounder from Benoni Northerns CC in the Easterns Premier League. Di Bartolomeo, who is also eligible for the Italian national side, will aim to play his way into their squad for the WT20 Qualifiers later in the summer while also aiming to put in some strong performances with bat and ball for the club in all competitions.

The 1st XI will face a tough start to their Premier Division campaign with an uncompromising schedule of three successive away fixtures in Munster competitions, followed by a trip to Ardmore in the Irish Senior Cup. However, the squad is strengthened with a few new faces who will inject some freshness and necessary depth into the team. Saddique will also be able to rely on the experience and talent of the likes of  Ross Durity, Byron McDonough, Nabeel Anjum among others who will all have key roles to play to ensure the club has a successful season.

Saddique is optimistic about the upcoming season and his role as club captain, stating, “It’s a new season, and as the new captain, I want to instil an aggressive mindset in the squad and look to win back some silverware in Munster and become a tough opponent in a very competitive-looking Leinster Championship.” It promises to be an exciting season for Cork County, and their supporters can’t wait to see what unfolds on the pitch.

Groundsman Matt Reed is also hard at work preparing the Mardyke for what promises to be another action-packed season on the ground, with fixtures at all levels scheduled throughout the summer. In addition, the first T20 Interpro festival is set to take place in early June, adding to the already exciting lineup of matches. Matt’s expertise and attention to detail ensure that the ground is always in top condition, ready for play at all times.

Looking north across the the Mardyke Cricket grounds towards Sunday's Well.

The Best of 2022 Countdown

Sunday, January 1st, 2023

Welcome to our ‘Best of 2022’ countdown! Each year, we reflect on the amazing moments and achievements of the past season. As we count down from number 10 to the top spot, relive the most memorable moments of 2022.

  • #10 – To kick off our look back on 2022, the completion of the net bay construction is certainly a big highlight from the year and has proved to be a huge asset to the club and our members.
  • #9 – A colourful return to the St. Patrick’s Day Parade after a two year gap with a large and energised turnout from the youth section. It was great to see cricket on the streets of #Cork with the Lord Mayor also joining in!
  • #8 – Acknowledging some of the wonderful individual and team performances throughout the season. Too many to choose from — nail-biting match winners, 5 wicket hauls, 50s, 100s… Well done to everyone!
  • #7 – A wonderful finale to the season for the youth section with recognition of achievements at all levels with the U13s and U15s collecting their Munster trophies and medals. A fitting way to celebrate a successful season!
  • #6 – A first Division 3 title for Bilal Ahsan and his 4th XI squad was just reward following a challenging league campaign. Congrats to Bilal and the whole squad on a terrific effort throughout the highs & lows of the season!
  • #5 – The club competed in two All- Ireland Youth Semi-Finals, a first for any Munster club side. Though both results didn’t go our way, the boys and girls on both sides can be proud of their achievements. Well done to all involved!
  • #4 – Once again the Mardyke was looking pristine with some excellent wickets produced throughout the summer. Matt, Francois and the team helped maintain the very high standards that are often taken for granted at the Mardyke.
  • #3 – A first Division 1 title since 2010 ended a long wait for the club with 10 wins, 2 defeats and 2 No results ensuring the 2nd XI finished top of the pile. Well done to Rob Duggan and the squad for their efforts throughout the campaign.
  • #2 – A huge shout out to all of the hard work and organisation of the volunteers and coaches who helped make each of the youth levels function so well from the beginners at ‘Give It A Bash’ and the Softball Academy right up to the U17s.
  • #1 – Number 1 in our countdown has to be the wonderful memorial match in honour of the late, great Dermot Giltinan. For many, it was a chance to remember the great man and pay tribute to his legacy in the game of cricket in Cork and beyond.

Exceptional youth success celebrated at the Mardyke

Monday, September 26th, 2022

On an autumnal Friday evening at the Mardyke, more than 80 excited kids celebrated an exceptional season representing Cork County Cricket Club at various youth levels in Munster competitions.

After a full season of cricket, teams at U11, U13 and U15 gathered to receive their trophies and medals, and enjoy their end-of-season party, organised by Sukhi Byrne and the youth committee.

Cork County Chairman, Peter Dineen, presented U11 medals to delighted players and commented “This is a great evening for the club, and thoroughly deserved by all the players and parents. The founding father of our youth section, Dermot Giltinan, passed away just over a year ago, and he would be so proud of the youth section today.

John Buss, Operations Manager at Munster Cricket, was on hand to present the U13 and U15 trophies in the Munster Super Leagues and T20 competitions.

Cork County made a clean-sweep at U13 and U15 this year, a testament to the hard work of coaches Steve Ross, Mick Hull and Bruce Newton. Both teams went on to represent Munster at All-Ireland level, where anomalies in regulations saw them face older teams in away fixtures.  Cricket Ireland has promised to iron these out for next year.

The U13 T20 was won by the Cork County Sharks, captained by Cillian Ross, and the U13 Super League was won by the Cork County U13s captained by Mark Donnelly.

At the U15 level, Cork County won both competitions and was captained by Cronan Healy-Browne.

John Buss from Munster Cricket praised the players for their hard work in training and the great spirit they showed in the competitions. He praised the club and youth committee for their efforts in coaching, training and supporting their players.

The youth section at Cork County continues to thrive and a full programme of winter training will commence in the coming weeks. Older youth players continue to develop. Exposure at the adult level, as well as youth interprovincials, saw the likes of Niall Donnelly (16) make his first team debut during the final round of competitive fixtures, and there’s plenty more talent waiting to prove themselves.

The cricket season comes to an end this weekend and Matt Reed, the club Grounds Manager, will get to work preparing for next season when Cork County hope to build on a very successful season.








Cork County reach two All-Ireland Youth Semi-finals

Thursday, September 1st, 2022

On a balmy August evening last year, the Cork County Colts team, 4th year schools and below, were presented with their trophy and medals, having won the Leinster Colts league. It’s all about developing youth cricket. Given that cricket has been played in The Mardyke since the 1850’s, you might ask what more needs to be developed, and such are the travails of sport.

Dermot Giltinan, ‘The Galt’, championed cricket for decades, and his recent star-studded Memorial match testified to the esteem in which he was held. But like the Olympics, the torch needs to be carried by many. Brenda Kennedy, Veena O’Sullivan, John Simon and others have all championed the cause for several years, and on that evening last August, the current Senior Youth Coach, Steve Ross, looked at the trophy and the happy smiling faces and vowed to replicate that success.

Cork County U15 team

True to his steely word, the U13s and U15s won the Munster Super League campaigns at their age grade.

On Sunday 4th, and Saturday 10th September the U13s and U15s, respectively, will travel to Dublin to play Pembroke and Phoenix in the All-Ireland semi-final of their competitions.

Over the past four years, Steve Ross with his trademark quiet, direct style has coached, mentored and developed a squad of novices into committed and dedicated players. His coaching style is unrelenting and determined. Tough training, high standards and total commitment are his watchwords – and you reap what you sow. As with all good teams, the leader is only as good as the team around them, and Mick Hull (U15 Coach), Bruce Newton and former Munster U15 Coach, Abdul Jabbar Younus, have been instrumental in developing the U15 squad of players. 1st team captain Ross Durity and 2nd team captain Rob Duggan have also been generous with their time to support coaches when needed.

Cork_County_CC_U13_Team

Qualification came via wins against Limerick City, Limerick Blasters, Cork Harlequins and Galway CC in both leagues. All of which were tough games but an All-Ireland semi-final is another level again. Cricket in Dublin is so good that it has produced Eoin Morgan, Kevin and Niall O’Brien and Ed Joyce – world-class cricket players. Harry Terctor leads the charge for the next generation.

It’s a tough ask to travel to Dublin to play away fixtures against the strong Leinster champions, but to borrow a phrase from Declan Kidney, “pressure is a privilege”.

Regardless of results in Dublin, the Cork County U13s and U15s are Munster Champions in their respective Munster Super Leagues.

A possible Schools League, played in September, is further testament to the growth of cricket in Cork – and it’s no surprise that there’s lots of cricket on The Mardyke, after all, “its’ where we sported and played…!”

Fixtures:

Sunday 04 September, U13 All-Ireland Semi-final
Pembroke CC v Cork County CC

Saturday 10 September, U15 All-Ireland Semi-final
Phoenix CC v Cork County CC








Dermot J. Gilitinan Memorial Match

Monday, July 11th, 2022

As President of Cork County Cricket Club for the 2022 season, I would like to take this opportunity to cordially invite you to the Memorial Match for our late esteemed member Dermot J. Giltinan between a Cork County XI and an Ed Joyce XI on Wednesday, 27th July, starting at 2 p.m.

However, it is not merely another match. It will be a further celebration of Dermot’s life and his immense contribution to Cork, Munster and Irish cricket over the years. It will counterpoint the Memorial Service held for Dermot at the club on Saturday afternoon, 9th April, which was so wonderfully organised by our very own Ali Khan.

It will be an opportunity for you to renew acquaintances with old friends and meet new ones. The match will be augmented by a Q & A session conducted by our old friend Alan Lewis and the man answering the questions will, of course, be Ed Joyce, another old friend of Dermot and the club.

In conclusion, I look forwards to seeing you and your family on the day if you can make it.

With warmest personal regards.

Yours sincerely,

Mortimer Kelleher
President

 

Dermot Giltinan Memorial Match