Downpatrick Emerging as Tournament Hub as Ards Cricket Tournament Event Delivers Standout Performances .
Downpatrick Cricket club is rapidly strengthening its reputation as a key venue for cricket in Ireland, successfully hosting a series of tournaments this season.
The Ards Club Red Hard Tennis Ball Cricket Tournament 2026, held at The Meadow grounds on 25th April 2026 brought together nine teams from across Ireland, competing for a £501 winner’s prize, £251 for runners-up, and the coveted rolling trophy. The finals capped off a day of competitive cricket and community spirit.
Individual Brilliance Shines Through:
Among the standout performers was Jinu George, representing the Royal Eagles Team, who played a pivotal role in his team’s title-winning campaign. His exceptional bowling performances earned him:
Best Bowler of the Tournament
Man of the Match (Semi-Final)
Jinu’s contributions were instrumental in securing the championship and the £501 cash prize for Royal Eagles.
Equally impressive was Jacob Jack, another Downpatrick player who featured for the host side, Ards Club. Jack delivered a remarkable all-round performance across three matches, finishing with:
91 runs
3 wickets
His performances earned him:
Man of the Series
Best Batsman of the Tournament
Man of the Match (Semi-Final)
Both players were later pictured alongside Downpatrick Club President Norman Ferguson and Rosemary Ferguson, highlighting a proud moment for Downpatrick Cricket club.
A Growing Cricket Hub:
Earlier in April, Downpatrick also hosted the Royal Premier League (4th Edition) rescheduled Finals Day from last September along with the inaugural edition of AdRi's Royal Castle Cup, organised by Castle Sports World in association with Royal Challengers Belfast. These events have further strengthened the club’s standing within the cricketing community. Royal Premier League is a high profile competition with cash prize £1000 held annually with teams coming from across England and Ireland which attracts lot of local premier league and National players. Adri's Royal Castle Cup held had cash prize of £500.
This latest tournament marks the third major event hosted by Downpatrick this year, reinforcing its ambition to become a tournament hub for cricket in the region. The club continues to work closely with AdRi Ventures and Castle Sports World to attract and organize competitions and deliver events to a high standard.
Club Manager and AdRi Venture's Ravi Ningegowda works closely with Jeff Maguire of Castle Sports World, along with Downpatrick Cricket Club committee members Jack McIlheron, groundsman Jeremy McCready, Treasurer Correna and President Norman Ferguson, to continue building the club’s growing reputation.
