CSNI will meet Merrion in the final of the All-Ireland T20 Women’s competition after the Stormont side ran out eight wicket winners against Fox Lodge at Ballymagorry.

Batting first the Foxies were indebted to Sarah Black’s hard-hit 45 from only 33 balls, which included five of the seven boundaries they hit against a well drilled CSNI bowling unit.

Jenny Dallas (10) was the only other play to reach double figures in their total of 96 for 7.

Lucie McNaught (2-17) and Jemma Gillan (2-26) each took two wickets, while Jess Mayes (1-10) and Leah Beattie (1-12) bowled frugally.

The home side were given a real boost with the run out of Aoife Fisher by Sarah Black for 6, but thereafter it was the story of missed chances – four catches being dropped off the bowling of skipper Mollie Devine (1-9).

Rachael Thomas was eventually dismissed for 25 (4 fours), but Alison Cowan (30*) and McNaught (22*) got CSNI home in quick time with an unbroken third wicket stand of 47 in just 32 balls to seal the victory in the 13th over.

The final will be played in Cork next Sunday as part of a double-header with the men's match featuring Cork Harlequins and CIYMS.