The late withdrawal of Ewarton High, just days before the start of the daCosta Cup competition, will come with consequences, said Inter-secondary Schools Sports Association’s Competition Officer Ewan Scott.

Ewarton became the second school from Zone J to have withdrawn following Enid Bennett High, leaving only four teams: Charlemont High, Dinthill Technical, McGrath High, and Tacius Holding High.

“Please note that Ewarton High has withdrawn from the 2024 daCosta Cup; the implications of this action will soon be communicated,” said Scott.

Last Friday, Fair Prospect High also withdrew from Zone L but that did not affect the group as seven teams remained in Happy Grove High, Morant Bay High, Paul Bogle High, Robert Lightbourne High, Seaforth High, St Thomas Technical, and Yallahs High.

DaCosta Cup has 82 schools spread across 13 zones. Last year’s champion Clarendon College will seek to defend its title along with the all-island Olivier Shield crown.

Glenmuir High are the defending all-island Champions Cup winner while McGrath High are the defending rural area Ben Francis Knockout champion.

The schoolboy season kicks off on Saturday at the Catherine Hall Stadium in St James with three games.

Manning Cup champions Mona High will open against Waterford High at 2:00 pm before Clarendon College tackle Denbigh High at 4:00 pm. At 6:00 pm, Cornwall College play Herbert Morrison High.