Rush Cricket Club recently celebrated a remarkable milestone — 50 years of consecutive women’s cricket, from 1976 to 2026.

The occasion was a wonderful celebration of the many players, past and present, coaches, volunteers, families and supporters who have contributed to this incredible chapter in the club’s history.

The celebrations began with a Youth Cricket “Give It a Bash” session, giving the next generation an opportunity to enjoy the game and experience the sense of fun and community that cricket brings.

This was followed by a very special ladies’ cricket match, with Rush women’s players from across the decades returning to the field. Past and present teammates joined together for a fun-filled game, reconnecting with old friends and creating new memories along the way.

The day concluded with a lovely afternoon tea and celebratory speeches, reflecting on the history of women’s cricket at Rush and recognising the many people who have helped it flourish over the past 50 years.

Rush’s contribution to women’s cricket has also reached the highest level, with a number of players who represented Ireland having played their cricket at Rush during their careers. We are incredibly proud of the Rush connection to Collette McGuinness, Caitriona Beggs, Ciara Metcalfe, Carole McGuire, Clodagh Conway and Aoife Beggs — all of whom represented Ireland and were part of the Rush cricket story at different stages. These players are a wonderful reflection of the talent, ambition and opportunities that women’s cricket at Rush has fostered over the years.

Perhaps the most special part of the day was seeing players reconnect with teammates — sharing stories, reminiscing about matches and memorable moments, and celebrating the friendships that have lasted long beyond their playing days.

Cricket brought us together — and 50 years later, it continues to do just that.

Rush Cricket Club looks forward to continuing this wonderful legacy and inspiring many more generations of girls and women to pick up a bat, take the field and become part of the Rush cricket family.