Dundalk Cricket Club hosted a very successful Open Day on Sunday last in the local sports centre. The number of people attending far exceeded expectations. Visitors of all ages, both male and female, came not just from Dundalk but from throughout the country. Many availed of the opportunity to try their hand at the game and joined in the fun. Quizzes, crosswords and DVD’s, all on cricket related themes were part of the all-day entertainment.

It was also an occasion for former members of the Crusaders club to get together and reminisce (and indeed exaggerate!) about their own playing days.

Leinster Cricket Union’s Development Officer, Brian O’Rourke was very pleased by the talent and enthusiasm he witnessed and commented, “I was pleasantly surprised by the quality exhibited here today and it augurs well for the future of this new club”.

The highlight of the day was an inspirational talk and slide show by former Irish coach Adi Birrell on how cricket in Ireland has developed over the past seven years and focussing on the brilliant performance of the team at the 2007 Worlds Cup in the West Indies. Adi also displayed the Inter-Continental Cup, which Ireland retained for the third successive time earlier this year. He wished the new club well and said, “If their performances on the field of play are as successful as this open day has been, their future is secure”

Club chairman Gerry Murphy thanked the various sponsors and also the local media for their support. He also thanked Louth County Council’s Sports and Recreation Officer, Noel Redmond for his assistance in the formation of the club and wished Noel well on the occasion of his upcoming retirement.

The club has made early contact with clubs in the North Dublin area to secure fixtures for next summer. Similar contact in relation to friendly games has been made with a cricket group in Newry and also Warringstown and Lurgan cricket clubs in Northern Ireland. It is hoped a home can be found for Dundalk CC at the either the local Marist School or at Dundalk Institute of Technology.