NCU

The Northern Cricket Union's top leagues have received a double boost with the announcement of fixtures and the renewal of their sponsorship. 

The Robinson Services Premier League is scheduled to start on Saturday June 12 when it is hoped Covid-19 restrictions will allow longer 50-over games. 
  
Defending champions CIYMS will be away to CSNI with 2019 runners-up North Down travelling to Carrickfergus. The other opening fixtures in the eight-club league will be Waringstown v Instonians and Woodvale v Lisburn. 
  
Both Robinson Services Section 2 and Robinson Services Section 3 - each with six clubs - also have the same opening date and longer format. 

An earlier start and mixed format is planned for Robinson Services Section 1 with its 10 clubs. Their season is scheduled to start on Saturday May 8 initially with 20 over games before progressing to the longer format when restrictions allow.
  
The chairman of the NCU, Sam Beckett, said there will be flexibility built into the season given the unpredictability of the Covid-19 virus. 
  
He said: "The plan is in keeping with current government guidelines and timing. Should these restrictions be either relaxed or tightened we will react accordingly." 
  
The fixtures coincide with the announcement by the commercial cleaning and security company Robinson Services that it is renewing its sponsorship of the four senior leagues for another three years. 

David Robinson, managing director of Robinson Services, said the company had no hesitation in renewing the sponsorship. 
  
He said: "The return of sport in these difficult times is to be warmly welcomed and we are only too happy to play our part. 
  
"The fixture list promises a first class season and let's hope current restrictions can be relaxed to allow spectators." 

Robinson Services Premier League
Robinson Services League 1
Robinson Services League 2
Robinson Services League 3