As the days grow longer and the 2025 season begins to take shape, we’d like to extend a warm welcome to all our members, both returning and new, for what promises to be another exciting chapter at the Mardyke. Following a truly memorable 150th anniversary season, filled with silverware and special moments, we look forward to building on that momentum together this summer.
The 2025 season brings fresh challenges and great opportunities. Most notably, our 1st XI will be competing in the newly formatted Leinster Premier League, which now features twelve of which are probably some of the top club sides in Ireland and Europe. This is a fantastic opportunity to test ourselves at the highest level, and each fixture, especially the home matches, will be a great occasion for the club. Your support will be crucial as we look to make our mark. View the full Leinster fixture list here >
We are also delighted to confirm the return of Mark Andrianatos, who will take on the role of Head Coach and all-rounder. Mark’s energy, leadership and talent had a huge impact last season, and we are excited to welcome him back to help drive the club forward on and off the pitch.
Following our trophy winning 2024 campaign, which saw us lift the Munster Premier Division, Division One, Division Two A, Senior Cup, Minor Cup, and both 2nd & 3rd XI T20 trophies, there is plenty to be excited about across all competitions in 2025 as well as the continued progress of our young pathway players as they build their experience in adult competitions.
Our youth section continues to grow, with sides competing at Under 13, Under 15 and Under 17 levels. After their title win in League B last season, the Colts will now step up to compete in the Under 15 Boys League A. It is encouraging to see so many young cricketers progressing through the ranks into adult cricket. In his role as Head Coach, Mark will be providing guidance and structure to the youth training plans for the summer, which is also a huge boost.
Training schedule:
- Mondays: U15s & U17s
- Tuesdays: High Performance Academy, 1st & 2nd XIs
- Wednesdays: 3rd, 4th & 5th XIs
- Thursdays: 1st & 2nd XIs
- Fridays: U7s up to U13s and Girls Softball
The women’s section also continues to go from strength to strength thanks to the hard work of Aideen Spalding and Mick Hull. We are especially looking forward to seeing new players join the squad this summer after strong interest during the off-season CricHIIT sessions.
As we look ahead, we also pause to remember the recent passing of club legend Pat Dineen. Pat captained the club on six occasions between 1963 and 1984 and represented Ireland 23 times. He was part of the famous Irish side that bowled out the West Indies for 25 at Sion Mills in 1969. His impact on the game in Munster and beyond was immense, and his legacy will endure at the Mardyke.
A reminder that annual subscriptions must be paid to attend training and be eligible for selection. Please also ensure that your Munster and Leinster competition registrations are completed as soon as possible.
Finally, as we prepare to take the field once again, I would like to remind all players and supporters of the importance of upholding the Spirit of Cricket. Let’s play hard and play to win, but always with respect for the opposition and match officials. Passion is welcome, but it should never cross the line. We all represent Cork County both on and off the field — let’s do so with pride and integrity.
We are excited to welcome everyone back to the Mardyke and wish you a successful and enjoyable season ahead.
Yours in cricket,
Robert Duggan
Chairperson
The ashes of Noel Cantwell, one of Cork and Ireland’s greatest sportsmen, are to be scattered on a cricket pitch at the Mardyke close to where he was born.
The Leesiders went in to the game knowing a victory of any kind would put them in an unassailable lead in the Premier Division and so would retain their title for the fourth season in a row.
