Railway Union were crowned All-Ireland Under-17 champions after a commanding 63-run victory over North Down in the national final at the Mardyke.

The Dublin side’s triumph was built around an outstanding second-wicket partnership of 124 between captain Ted Hasler and Gethin Kelleher, who transformed the innings after Peter le Roux had fallen for five with the score on 18. 

Hasler struck seven fours in an excellent 57 from 45 balls, while Kelleher was even more fluent, hitting 10 boundaries in his 62 from 46 deliveries.

Their stand carried Railway to 142 before Kelleher was dismissed, with North Down managing a late fightback through Luke Crothers, Fraser Mitchell, Isaac Webster and Jaxon Dines. Railway nevertheless reached a challenging 155 for five from their 20 overs.

North Down’s pursuit was in trouble almost immediately as Josh Parker fell to Hugo Daly from the opening delivery.

Stephen O’Leary then removed Joshua Montgomery and Isaac Webster as North Down slumped to 15 for four inside three overs, leaving the chase in tatters.

Alex Fielding attempted to repair the damage with a patient 17, while Ben Ewart made 12, but wickets continued to fall regularly.

Devam Koradia was the pick of the Railway attack, claiming three for 16, while Daly and O’Leary took two wickets apiece. 

North Down were eventually dismissed for 92, sparking the celebrations for the Park Avenue side after an emphatic all-round performance secured the All-Ireland crown.