NCU Youth Directorate

NCU U14s Prepare for Taunton

In an action packed summer for the NCU youth sides, the next trip on the agenda is the Under 14 tour to Kings College, Taunton from Sunday 31st July to Friday 5th August. The team will play five 50 over matches in five days, with group games against Buckinghamshire, Cheshire and Essex, before playing seeded matches on Thursday and Friday. 

Only Archie Johnston was part of the NCU U15 side that lifted the Interpro title at the start of the month, with a number of the other 14 year olds not considered for selection due to possible clashes with Irish U15 fixtures. The squad is comprised of players that have either been involved in the Denmark touring side, in the visit of Jersey or in the NCU U13 Interpro series. 

Speaking ahead of the tour, coach Scott Irvine said: "A number of these guys have been involved in a lot of cricket so far this summer, but this tour to Taunton presents a great challenge for all involved. The NCU have been considering their involvement in these festivals for a few years and we felt this summer was perfect to take an U14 squad and begin preparations for next year."

"Having five 50 over games in just five days will be a massive test for the kids, but it gives the squad and coaches the chance to really implement some brilliant learning over the course of the week."

"Only Archie was part of the NCU U15 squad for the Interpros, with several other players not considered for selection due to potential Irish involvements. Having said that, it's a great chance to work with a number of the 14 year olds that just missed out this year and with some of the 13 year olds that I haven't seen much of before."

"It will be brilliant for the players to have the chance to play on some excellent pitches, against some quality opposition - I have no doubt it will be a really beneficial trip for all involved!"

Details of the tour and scores from the matches can be found on the festivals website www.westcricketfestivals.com or on twitter @TauntonCricFest.

The squad for the tour is as follows:

• Luke Allison (Donaghcloney)
• Ben Beattie (Instonians)
• Ben Buchanan-Rolleston (Carrick)
• Jack Dickson (Instonians)
• Nathan Doak (Lisburn)
• John Gibbons (CSNI)
• Ethan Hanna (Saintfield)
• Matthew Humphreys (Instonians)
• Archie Johnston (CSNI)
• James Lambert (Instonians)
• Charlie Maskery (CIYMS)
• Sam McLarnon (Instonians)
• Hugh Minford (CSNI)
• Adam Speers (Laurelvale)

Coach: Scott Irvine
Manager: Uel Graham