CRICKET: Big three march on in NW Senior Cup

The North West Cricket Union introduced a new sponsor for their flagship cup competition this week, however despite Bank of Ireland being the new name on the top of the blue riband trophy; it will take something special from the rest to prevent one of the more familiar ones appearing underneath.
Donemana opening batsman Tom Riddles pictured during Saturday's Bank of Ireland NW Senior Cup win over Ardmore. INLS2016-105KMDonemana opening batsman Tom Riddles pictured during Saturday's Bank of Ireland NW Senior Cup win over Ardmore. INLS2016-105KM
Donemana opening batsman Tom Riddles pictured during Saturday's Bank of Ireland NW Senior Cup win over Ardmore. INLS2016-105KM

The gap separating Brigade, Coleraine and Donemana from the rest this season is as big as it has ever been, although Strabane and Eglinton will both be dangerous in these one-off contests as well.

Obviously the draw will be crucial to progress too and most of the league will have their fingers crossed that one or other of the ‘Big Three’ have been paired together at yesterday’s quarter-final stage.

On Saturday, Brigade thumped their Waterside neighbours Glendermott by 175 runs while Donemana went one better with 176 to spare over Ardmore.

Roshen Silva claimed seven wickets for Coleraine as they thrashed St Johnston by the maximum 10.

Last year’s beaten finalists Eglinton seen off Killyclooney by 63 runs thanks to Oraine Williams man of the match display.

Newbuildings beat Ballyspallen by 206 runs with professional Peat Salmon picking up the man of the match accolade and Strabane easily beat Burndenett by eight wickets.

David Rankin inspired Bready to a two wicket win over Fox Lodge and Bonds Glen lost to Drummond by six wickets.