Leinster @ Kenilworth Square , May 3rd 2024

With summer (hopefully) around the corner, the 2024 cricket season got underway as we took on Leinster CC in Kenilworth Square, Rathmines. 

Firstly, and most importantly, this is the first match report since our dear friend Cyril Crone passed away in March. Our great friends' merriment, wit and company were sorely missed but Cyril's spirit will live on with the Walnuts forever and how poignant and wonderful it was to see Cyril's son, Graham, watch us from the sidelines. Pure Walnut poetry. 

On a murky night with leaden skies, Leinster CC won the toss and elected to bat. The Rathmines side are a highly accomplished team rooted in cricket history, and their batters found the short boundaries with ease as they racked up an imposing total of 151. The Leinster lads racked up several 20s with Neil Shirt top scoring on 25. 

Eddie and Andrew provided a break to the run-making with accurate line and length bowling - Andrew picking up our sole wicket with a sublime delivery. 

In reply we struggled to cope with the pace and spin of their bowling. There was moisture in the air all evening, with drizzle at times, and this provided crucial extra bounce and pace off the pitch for the Leinster bowlers. Mark Allen in particular impressed with his accuracy and pace.

Colin struck a stolid 21 whilst Peadar hit a stylish 20.

We welcomed two new players, Cyril and Alex to the fold. You are both very welcome to the Walnuts. 

Back at Leinster CC HQ, Alex picked up a deserved MOTM as he fielded the entire game for both teams - a most noble effort. And many thanks to Leinster CC for your generous hospitality as we mingled with tennis players and line dancers. 

We look forward to welcoming Leinster to Terenure in July - one of our favourite teams on the Taverner circuit. It will be great to share another beer in TCRFC during the height of the summer.

And now it's onto Malahide where their cricketers (and a barbecue) await the Walnut Taverners. 

Walnuts Win under the Tree.