Knickerbocker Glory: Walnuts Launch 2026 Season at Observatory Lane


At last - the cricket season is back. And the 2026 edition is especially welcome, offering a welcome distraction from wars, energy affordability worries, and (at least in my case) long-suffering football teams.

There’s a nice historical symmetry to opening the season at Observatory Lane. The first ever international rugby match in Ireland was played on the Leinster Cricket Ground in 1876, when the home side famously took the field in “navy blue knickerbockers and blue stockings, with white jerseys bearing the shamrock”.

Fast forward to May 2026, and another proud team stepped onto the same turf - this time adorned not with shamrocks, but with walnuts. Mercifully, the knickerbockers have not made a comeback, though as the elastic gave way in my trousers, I briefly wished they had.

After winning the toss on a glorious sunny evening, captain Garret elected to bat, and the new season was underway. Leinster’s bowling was disciplined, accurate, and at times genuinely quick, but the Walnuts responded with composure. Gourang, Gerry, Garret, and Damian all contributed fluent innings, each passing 20, guiding the side to a competitive total of 114.

In reply, Leinster chased with controlled aggression, reaching the target with a couple of overs to spare. Despite the result, there were several encouraging performances with the ball for the Walnuts. Gourang and Eddie both claimed wickets, while the returning Graham impressed with his rhythm and control. A special mention too for Garret, who took an excellent catch at mid-on off Eddie’s bowling, and to Gerard on debut, whose sharp fielding - including a superb stop - marked a very promising first appearance.

As ever, the match was followed by a convivial gathering in the bar, where Garret and debutant Gerard were deserved recipients of the MOTM awards.  Food, drinks, and lively conversation rounded off the evening - shared, this time, with tennis players rather than the usual salsa dancers - alas.

Our thanks to Leinster for their warm hospitality. And now, if anyone needs me, I’ll be off in search of a pair of knickerbockers.
 

Leinster @ Leinster CC , May 1st 2026