Cricket Ireland today officially released the fixture list for the Hanley Energy Inter-Provincial Series 2018, with the addition of an eye-catching new three-day T20 Festival added to the programme.
The season will lead off with defending winners Leinster Lightning taking on the North-West Warriors on 1 May at Oak Hill, with recently announced Lightning Captain, George Dockrell, set to lead the team out.
“It’s another big year for the Lightning. The Inter-Pro’s goes from strength to strength and we are very keen to make it four Championships in a row.” said Dockrell.
The inclusion of a T20 Festival is expected to provide a boost for that form of the game in Ireland, and Leinster Cricket General Manager, Philip Smith jumped at the opportunity to host the three-day tournament:
“Cricket Leinster is delighted to have the opportunity to host the inaugural Inter-Pro T20 Festival in July at Pembroke Cricket Club,” said Mr Smith.
“We intend to make the occasion a memorable one for all cricket fans with full bar, catering and a kids zone available throughout. We are also delighted that the Festival matches will be live-streamed online.”
“With Ireland rightfully taking its place on the world stage – in what is the second largest sport globally – it is important to ensure good, competitive domestic cricket can provide that conveyor-belt of talent to the national sides,” said Clive Gilmore, CEO and Co-Founder of Hanley Energy.
“Hanley Energy chose to invest in first-class cricket in Ireland in order to support the growth and sustainability of the game. We wish all teams well for the coming season.”
Download full fixture list here.
The title-winning Leinster Lightning team in 2017
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