CRICKET: Munster Reds captain Morne Bauer has his work cut out. His team head to Castle Avenue today to take on Clontarf in the semi-final of the 45 Overs League knowing if they make the final it will be a big surprise. But Munster teams don't really seem to notice what the bookmakers say and this side will give everything for their skipper.

"Clontarf are a good team. There is no doubt about that, but if we stick to basics, keep the bowling tight, we have a big chance," said Bauer.

At 21, Bauer is the youngest captain in the competition but having played provincial seconds cricket for Borders in his native South Africa, the all-rounder is not short of experience.

"We have to be positive. I will be telling the lads not to think about what players they have. It only takes one ball to get rid of the best player and if you think about who they have too much, it makes you negative," he said.

Bauer will open the Munster bowling with Keith Banks. Bruce Koch will probably come on first change provided his knee holds up, and Bauer will also have Cory Atkinson, Ted Williamson and Stephen Hickey to call on.

With the bat, Williamson will open with Mike Wycherley and one feels the first-wicket partnership could be crucial to Munster's chances.

That said, at no stage can you count Clontarf out of the match. Trent Johnston, Alex Cusack, Dom Rigby, Greg Molins and Jeremy Bray, among others, can turn a game, and the smart money is on a home win.

Meanwhile, it could be too close to call in the other semi-final at Milverton as The Hills host Malahide. If they bat first, expect the home side to put on close to 300 but also expect Malahide's Johan Botha to enjoy the batting conditions for what could be another Fingal run-fest.

Elsewhere, the new-look Alan Murray Cup gets going today with a preliminary round between Trinity, Leinster and Old Belvedere at Rathmines. The LHW 20/20, as it will be known, brings this smash-bang brand of the game to Leinster club cricket. Play gets going at 11am.

On Sunday, there will be two games in the Whitney Moore and Keller League, CYM facing Clontarf and YMCA hosting The Hills. ...