Historic debut victory for Athlone Town Cricket Club
Athlone Town Cricket Club (ATCC) etched their name into local cricketing history with a resounding 5-wicket win over Ballina Cricket Club in their debut Division 1 fixture of the Connacht Cricket Union 40-over League on June 21. In only their first competitive season, the newly formed ATCC delivered a confident, clinical performance that sent a strong message to the rest of the league.
The game was played under bright sunshine at the scenic Kilconnell Cricket Ground. Electing to bowl first after winning the toss, ATCC captain Utkarsh Mishra entrusted his pace battery to set the tone — and they delivered in style. Fast bowler Mishra ripped through the Ballina top order with figures of 3 for 25 from 6 hostile overs, while Chaminda proved equally lethal from the other end, grabbing 3 for 23 in just under six overs.
With Ballina reeling at 42 for 7 inside the first 13 overs, the momentum was firmly with Athlone. Priyesh Kadge kept the pressure tight in the middle overs with his disciplined bowling, collecting 2 for 35 from 7 overs, while also showcasing sharp fielding with a key catch at short third man.
Behind the stumps, wicketkeeper NJ Chandradasa was a standout performer, claiming three crucial catches — two off Chaminda and one off Mishra — and playing a key role in the dismissal that sealed Ballina’s innings. A sharp throw from the deep by Vignesh Raj was cleanly gathered by NJ, who whipped off the bails in a flash to end the innings at just 123 in 22.5 overs.
In reply, Athlone’s top order came out swinging. Sujeet Kumar set the tone early with a blistering 17 off 14 balls, taking the attack to the Ballina bowlers. His opening partner Yedu supported well with some classy strokes before falling just as the foundation had been laid. At No. 3, NJ Chandradasa continued his stellar day with a quickfire 19 off 13 deliveries, pushing the scoring rate and demoralising Ballina’s attack.
By the end of the seventh over, ATCC were cruising at 62 for 3, having already done most of the hard work in the chase. A brief collapse saw three wickets fall in quick succession, but the calm heads of Vignesh Raj (20 off 30), Uttkarsh Mishra (27 off 29), and Priyesh Kadge (11 off 11 not out) ensured there were no further alarms. The winning runs of 124 came in the 17 over.
This landmark win marks an exciting new chapter in the sporting life of Athlone. ATCC was founded with a vision to promote cricket as a dynamic and unifying sport that transcends cultural and social boundaries. Operating under the Connacht Cricket Union, the club aims to foster a community-driven environment built on inclusivity, sportsmanship, and passion for the game.
ATCC extends sincere thanks to Ballina Cricket Club 1st XI for traveling to Kilconnell and contributing to a competitive, spirited contest. A special thanks also goes out to the umpires for their professional and consistent officiating, and to the scorers from both sides for keeping the game flowing seamlessly.
Athlone Town Cricket Club extends heartfelt gratitude to Kilconnell Cricket Club for generously hosting the fixture and providing good facilities. A special thank you goes to local partners and sponsors, whose invaluable support has helped bring this project to life. Your contributions have made it possible to bring together these talented individuals and establish a cricket club at the heart of Athlone.
With this maiden victory, Athlone Town Cricket Club has made a bold statement that it is here not merely to take part, but to compete and to inspire. As the summer unfolds, cricket fans in Athlone and throughout Connacht will surely watch this exciting new team with increasing anticipation and pride.