Adam Leckey takes three wickets in four balls to help RBAI win a record 13th Schools’ Cup

Inst were clear favourites against a Ballyclare side playing in their first Final, but the underdogs weren’t intimidated by the Belfast cricketing powerhouse, bowling and fielding with great tenacity.

Finn Lutton struck early, Jude Wilson got Adam Leckey cheaply, and when Jack Smyth struck twice in quick succession the game was in the balance at 75 for 4.

Ben McCausland top-scored with 41 (4 fours), while Callum Soper stroked four boundaries and a lofted six in an entertaining 32 as the middle and late order got the total up to 194.

Inst skipper Tom Crothers bowled Smyth with his first ball, and that set the tone for a superb bowling display by the holders.

Adam Leckey all but sealed the game with three wickets in four balls to leave Ballyclare on 19 for 5, with fellow Irish youth international James West also getting three wickets in a ruthless exhibition.

Jude Semple struck some late defiant blows but it was too little, too late, as they were bowled out for 68.

“After a rough start we really pulled it together and we can be very proud of how we played today,” said a delighted RBAI captain Tom Crothers afterwards.

“I wasn’t overly concerned when we lost a little cluster of wickets to slip to 75 for 4, because I know we have quality and depth right through the order. We were always confident and backed ourselves to put a decent total on the board.

“The start we got with those early wickets in their reply really put us on the front foot and we were able to really apply pressure and never let up.

“Adam Leckey was exceptional with the new ball and he’s one to really look out for in the future with both bat and ball. He and James West are regular performers in our attack and I knew they wouldn’t let us down on the big occasion.

“It’s a great win and credit to Ballyclare who bowled and fielded very well. No-one expected them to beat a very strong Campbell College side, so they’ve done exceptionally to reach the Final and I’m sure they will be back.”

Summary: RBAI beat Ballyclare High School by 126 runs

RBAI 194 (36 overs; Ben McCausland 41, Callum Soper 32, James West 23; Evan Carlisle 3-23, Jude Wilson 2-29, Jack Smyth 2-32)

BALLYCLARE HS 68 (25 overs; Jude Semple 13, Cooper Donnelly 10; Adam Leckey 3-7, James West 3-13, George Craigan 2-8, Luka Bates 1-2, Tom Crothers 1-8)