...the chance to play at one of Ireland’s most beautiful cricket grounds was always a pleasure. A few changes have been made down the years, and some of the old stalwarts on the boundary have passed to a higher calling, but visits to the Lawn as a spectator in recent years still stir a tickle in the belly, and the thrill to be part of a unique cricket atmosphere, which is unsurpassed anywhere. Quite simply, the Lawn has retained all its character and cricket ambience over the years, and while the players may change from generation to generation, this little plot of cricket tranquillity remains a hallowed haven in Ulster cricket folklore.
All this was endorsed on my visit to Waringstown on Saturday when the weather gods were at their worst. The prospect of another Waringstown versus North Down epic was enough to attract a useful crowd, even although the covers were never roused and the patter of rain never waned as everyone sat around and prayed for brighter skies. Alas, it was not to be, and the match was called off in mid-afternoon, much to the disappointment of all the players and spectators, as meetings between these two teams in the modern era are always days to savour.
But cricket is much more that the match itself and therein lies the unique culture of visits to the Lawn, as the postponement did not end the day’s proceedings, which continued in the clubhouse over tea and a beer. The Waringstown pavilion is steeped in history, and the many photographs that adorn its walls highlight a colourful heritage and exceptional pedigree. Trophy-winning teams by the score go back to pre-Great War days, and the gallery of Ireland internationals past and present, bear testimony to the huge contribution this club has made at the highest level of Irish cricket. But it is the people who really make Waringstown, and that’s why visits to the Lawn are very special. Few clubs these days retain their former players, so what chance any of them would be at the Lawn on a wet Saturday? But not so with Waringstown, and amongst the spectators who congregated in the clubhouse was a bevy of former stars. They included the legendary Ivan Anderson, perhaps Ireland’s finest batsman, big Alan Nelson, their prolific former opening bowler, wee Davy Dennison of cricket and football fame, the unsung Barry Harrison, arguably the finest utility player in Irish club cricket in his era, wicket-keeper supreme Eddie Bushe, the genial Alan Waite, and the doyen of Waringstown ‘elder statesmen’ Roy Harrison. There are no more engaging cricketers that ‘Snowy’ Harrison, and little wonder he remains the driving force behind this thriving club. But behind every great man is arguably an even greater woman, so a special word of praise to Roy’s wife Muriel and her hard-working Ladies team who have served the club and visiting teams so generously over the years. Waringstown teas are up there with the best in the business and another reason why visits to the Lawn are special!
Looking across the Lawn always brings back priceless memories, and despite the pitter-patter of rain the ground looked magnificent, as did the impressive practice area. It is a unique cricket sanctuary, which has been enhanced by true lovers of cricket down the years. Waringstown have always been dammed hard to beat on the field and like most great teams they are not good losers, but off the field they are generous hosts and they continue to maintain the high standards of cricket excellence that have been lovingly passed down to them by previous generations.
Clarence Hiles
Editor
