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DUNDALK – The Cricket Ireland President baton changed hands today as outgoing President William Wilson welcomed his successor, Stella Downes, to the role at Cricket Ireland’s Annual General Meeting.

Former Brigade cricketer Wilson, who has completed 12 months in the Presidency.role, is a former player at Brigade Cricket Club, playing under the legendary Roy Torrens. He eventually replaced Roy as captain of the club following Roy’s retirement.

In 2001 William retired from the game as a player and became involved as a North West selector and as a Representative on the Irish Cricket Union’s Cricket Committee. He was appointed Irish Selector for the North West for the duration of Adrian Birrell’s tenure as Ireland Coach, and for two seasons with Phil Simmons.

William said:

“As the saying goes – time flies when you’re enjoying yourself and my year as President has been no exception. I find it hard to believe that it’s twelve months since I accepted the role of President.

“From watching cricket in the North West, to attending the Ireland Women’s series against Australia, to attending Lord’s for the Test match against England – what an experience it has been. As I stood in the famous Long Room and wandered through the pavilion I was like the proverbial “wain in a sweetie shop”- I was in awe of all those magnificent portraits and the general history that goes with the place itself. 

“From a personal viewpoint it was lovely to have an opportunity to talk cricket to the likes of Stephen Fry and Sir Trevor McDonald amongst other celebrities and MCC personnel present at the game. It was also good craic catching up with many of the Irish supporters after each days play in the Danubius Hotel adjacent to the ground.

“To summarise my year from a cricket perspective there were obviously highs and lows throughout the year – but it was fantastic to follow those ups and downs of our international men’s and women’s teams, the talent on show in the Inter-Provincial Series, Super Series and the all-Ireland cup competitions. All in all, when I reflect on the past twelve months, cricket at all levels in Ireland both Men’s and Women’s has come a long way and with the underage structure in place the future looks good for Irish Cricket.

“I would like to thank a few people for the opportunity and support. First of all, Joe Doherty who was in no small way responsible for me having had the opportunity to be President of Cricket Ireland. Thanks, too, to both David O’Connor and David Griffin who stood in for me on the few occasions I was unable to attend functions or matches.

“Thanks also to Brian Walsh, Peter McMorran and Philip Black who all offered their support in any way, and thanks to the staff at Cricket Ireland – especially Brenda – who supported me incredibly throughout the year.

“Thank you all so much for making my year such a memorable experience. Finally, I congratulate Stella on her appointment as President for the coming year.”