Well-known Kilkenny faces swap their hurls for cricket bats

Castle Blunden was a sea of black and amber on Sunday, as cricket and hurling came together for a unique sporting showcase at Kilkenny Cricket Club.

Hurling and camogie stars, past and present, dawned Kilkenny jerseys of a different kind as the cricket club’s stylish black and amber jersey offered the players a matchday feeling of a different kind.

The fun day out welcomed some of the biggest GAA names the county has ever produced. TJ Reid, the Downey sisters and Eddie Keher were just some of the names in attendance as club loyalties were put aside to support the locally-based mental health charity Teac Tom.

Reid, renowned for his striking ability in hurling found cricket more of a challenge.

"It was tough enough, it’ll take me a few more training sessions to get up to speed,” he said with a smile. “It was very enjoyable, a great occasion for the cricket club and Teac Tom and a great family day out."

The Shamrocks Ballyhale man is the leading scorer in All-Ireland hurling championship history but that remarkable feat was no aid on the cricket field.

"It’s a lot different," added Reid. "The swing is different, the ball coming in has a spin on it, even throwing the ball - it’s a very difficult skillset to have."

The day’s activities kicked off with an underage cricket blitz as some of the sports future stars showcased their talents in the picturesque venue. 

Slowly but surely crowds began to trickle into the event and by mid-afternoon, the grounds were alive with people eager to enjoy the festivities.

Food stalls, an ice-cream van and a coffee dock were just some of the facilities on offer during a packed day of activities.

The afternoon was an educational experience as well as an enjoyable one. Local people who had never seen a cricket match before watched closely as their sporting heroes gave the game, once played far and wide Noreside, their best shot.

For many, guidance during the games was a must and those who needed it were not left wanting as GAA commentator Barrie Henriques explained the finer details to a captivated audience.

Patrick Blunden, a proud member of Kilkenny Cricket Club and major contributor to the organising team, was very proud to see GAA and cricket joining forces.

"We’re absolutely delighted with the turn out today. It’s turned out to be a great day."

"There were 50 cricket clubs in Kilkenny in 1896, there’s now 41 GAA clubs. We’re hoping to get a few more people interested."

Mr Blunden thanked the hurling and camogie fraternity for coming out in such great numbers all in aid of Teac Tom. 

Angela Hayes, CEO of the local charity, was overwhelmed by the support and thanked all those who took time to attend, adding,

"It has been a challenging period, so many people have come through the door but we hope to give back as much as we receive from the community,” she said.