by Matt Pitts
Cricket in Bangor took on a wonderfully new (and slightly wiser!) look on Wednesday evening as the inaugural NCU Masters competition got underway at Ward Park and it did not disappoint.
Designed specifically for players aged 50 and over, this fresh initiative from the Northern Cricket Union proved an instant success, blending competitive cricket with camaraderie, good humour, and a healthy dash of nostalgia.
Under glorious sunshine at Ward Park, Bangor’s new home of cricket, Bangor Masters XI welcomed CSNI Masters XI for what was a historic first fixture in the competition. Spirits were high from the outset, and Bangor set the tone by winning the toss and electing to bat.
What followed was a batting performance full of class and perhaps a reminder that form is temporary, but technique (and a good eye!) is permanent.
Four Bangor batters reached the competition’s retirement milestone of 30 runs, with Patrick McMillan, Gareth McCullough, Patrick English, and Matthew Pitts all enjoying productive spells at the crease. Their contributions helped Bangor compile an impressive total of 166 for 6, a score built on steady accumulation and plenty of well-timed strokes.
While the batters set the platform, the Bangor bowling and fielding effort added a touch of magic and a few moments that will be talked about for years to come.
Chris Escott was the headline act with the ball, claiming his first wicket in five years. The celebrations suggested it had been well worth the wait, as he quite literally “rolled back the years” with a memorable breakthrough.
Not to be outdone in the field, Paul Houston produced two outstanding catches, demonstrating that age has done nothing to diminish his safe hands or sharp reactions. Both efforts drew warm applause from players and spectators alike.
Chasing 166 in a 100-ball innings, CSNI Masters XI showed resilience and determination against a disciplined Bangor attack. They battled their way to 95 for 6, with several players getting starts but finding it difficult to build the sustained partnerships needed to threaten the target.
Despite the result, the visitors played their part in what was a thoroughly enjoyable and competitive encounter.
Bangor’s victory marked a positive start to their NCU Masters campaign, but perhaps the real success story lay beyond the scoreboard.
Played in excellent spirit throughout, the match embodied everything the new competition set out to achieve, keeping experienced players involved in the game, encouraging participation, and celebrating a lifelong love of cricket.
With laughter echoing around Ward Park, old rivalries rekindled, and new memories created, the NCU Masters format looks set to become a valued addition to the local cricket scene.
If this opening fixture is anything to go by, the “Masters” game is in very good hands indeed.
