The 2026 Gallagher Challenge Cup got underway on Saturday 2nd May, with a strong set of performances across the opening round of the NCU’s premier competition.
Bangor cruise past Saintfield
Bangor safely progressed with a convincing 7-wicket win over Saintfield. The visitors were bowled out for 162 in 34.5 overs, with Werner Brand (36) and Ross Murray (26) offering some resistance. Ian Butler was the standout with the ball, taking an excellent 3-6, well supported by Josh Bates (2-18) and Angus Farrell (2-42).
In reply, Bangor chased the 1st innings total comfortably, reaching 166-3 in 32.3 overs. Bangor’s Overseas Brodie Harrison anchored the innings superbly with an unbeaten 72, while the experienced Andrew Kirkpatrick added an assured 43* to see their side home.
Cregagh ease past Cooke Collegians
Cregagh advanced with a dominant 6-wicket victory after bowling Cooke Collegians out for just 86. Off-spinner Danny Cooper produced a superb spell of 5-12, backed up by Peter Davison and Aidan Savarimuthu with two wickets apiece.
Cregagh made light work of the chase, reaching 89-4 in just 16 overs, with Aaron Johnston finishing unbeaten on 39 and Craig Boultwood contributing 27.
Derriaghy post big total to overcome Donacloney Mill
A high-scoring contest at Queensway saw Derriaghy progress by 101 runs (DLS) after posting an imposing 329 in 48.5 overs. Overseas Matt Scoble led the way with a superb 129, while Craig Lewis added 94 in a dominant batting display in front of a home crowd.
Donacloney Mill’s reply was rain interrupted, with contributions from Neil Kilpatrick (50) and Ryan Matthews (35) not enough as they fell short of the DLS-adjusted target of 313. Derriaghy’s bowlers, including Wayne Hughes (3-41), ensured control throughout the chase.
Doddrell masterclass powers Lurgan
Lurgan produced one of the standout performances of the round, defeating Armagh by 112 runs. Lurgan’s Overseas Liam Doddrell was the star of the show, compiling a brilliant 153 to guide his side to 257.
Armagh were unable to mount a response, dismissed for 145 despite Aaron Wright’s 39. Nithin Babu claimed an excellent 5-29, with John Guy also contributing with both bat (37) and ball (2-16) in an impressive all-round display.
Thank you to the Gallagher representatives for handing out the Player of the Match awards.
Second Round Draw (7th June | Reserve: 14th June)
Following the opening round, attention now turns to an exciting Second Round lineup:
- Bangor v Laurelvale
- Carrickfergus v Derriaghy
- Cliftonville Academy v Muckamore
- CSNI v Woodvale
- Instonians v Templepatrick
- Lisburn v Waringstown
- Lurgan v Cregagh
- North Down v CI