Niall “Budda” McSwiggan played in both of Malahide CC’s first ever underage cup successes. In 1969 Malahide (123) defeated Leinster (59) at Malahide to win the Leinster Under 15 AB Robertson Cup*. In addition to his agile wicketkeeping Niall scored 16 not out in the Final and played a key role with a partnership of 50 for the 8th wicket with Barry Gilmore. Niall also kept wicket in 1972 when Malahide (112) beat Rush (88) in the Leinster Under 19 Cup Final at Cabra Oval**. Again Niall contributed to this historical victory with a fine display behind the stumps including a couple of catches.
Niall went on to play for the Thirds and Fourths under captains Dougie Keegan and Justin Rodgers.
Niall hailed from the St Margaret’s Road stable of cricketers. His family were steeped in the Club. His father Frank and uncle Gerry were on the team that played in Malahide’s first ever Senior 1 (Cup) matches in 1939 and 1940. His brother Peter “Twig” McSwiggan was a skillful left arm seamer. And his mother Maureen made the teas for the ravenous junior players.
Niall recently passed away sadly in Canada. May he rest in peace.
*Irish Times 22/08/1969
**Irish Times 08/09/1972
Budda is seated in the front row in the 1968 Under 15 team photo with gloves and pads.
Brian Gilmore