Friday 6 June, The Meadow, Dundrum – A proud new chapter began for Dundrum Cricket Club as their U-17 girls’ team took to the field for the very first time, facing a well-drilled Holywood outfit in what proved to be a competitive and spirited contest.
Despite a 77-run defeat, the match marked a significant milestone for the club, coming four years after the successful launch of its senior women’s side. The formation of the U-17 girls’ team represents the next crucial step in Dundrum’s long-term vision to grow and sustain the women’s game at grassroots level.
Holywood won the toss and opted to bat in overcast conditions. Dundrum started brightly, with Rachel Hodge striking early to dismiss I. Bond in her second over, reducing the visitors to 13 for 1 inside three overs. However, Holywood’s greater experience soon began to show as E. Cupitt and Erin Bond built a commanding 80-run partnership that put the pressure firmly back on Dundrum.
A double breakthrough gave the home side renewed energy. Lucy Gunson claimed the vital wicket of Bond for 48, while Erin Louise Hammond struck just three balls later to remove Cupitt for 19. But the Holywood batting unit wasn’t done. E. Mitchell (23*) and Nina Kerr (50*) added a rapid 70-run partnership to push their total to a formidable score. Holywood closed their innings with an imposing 187 for 3 from their 20 overs.
In reply, Dundrum stumbled early, losing two wickets in the opening four overs to sit at 12 for 2. But showing commendable grit and composure, captain Joscelyn Wright and Darcy Hull steadied the innings with a resilient 50-run partnership. Hull impressed with a well-crafted 17, while Wright led from the front with an unbeaten 46, anchoring the innings through to the close.
Despite the spirited fightback, Dundrum finished their 20 overs on 110 for 8, handing Holywood a deserved victory. For Dundrum, this match was about more than just the result. With many of the squad making their debut in competitive cricket, the performance showed promise, heart, and a strong foundation for the future.
Next up, the Dundrum U-17 Girls will travel to CSNI as they continue their exciting debut season.
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