Through a combination of excellent performances and some good fortune, the majority of Leisnter clubs have progressed to the second round of the two naational cup competitions - the Irish Senior Cup and the National Cup.
In recent years Leinster clubs have acheived a considerable measure of success in their first round face-offs against teams in the other unions. The trend continues this year with seven out of ten teams going through in the ISC and a very impressive seven out of eight in the NC.
A greater proficiency in bowl outs helped the Leinster cause, winning two out of the three games decided in this manner. The unlucky club was Railway, with Merrion and Dundrum going through. On the field Leinster clubs have shown an ability to win the tight contests with Malahide [9 runs], Terenure [one wicket] and North Kildare [two wickets] all giong through after narrow victories.
Going into the second round draw [which takes place for both teams at 10.00 this morning] are the following Leinster teams.
ISC: Malahide, Merrion, North County, Pembroke, Phoenix, The Hills and YMCA
NC: Balbriggan, Civil Service, Dundrum, Laois, North Kildare, Rush and Terenure.
The second rounds are scheduled for the 29th May