Czech Republic: Prague Sixes inspires Czech participation

On 1st July Prague staged its fifth annual six-a-side tournament with eight local teams competing for the Capita Trophy. The day proved to be a run feast with 1,387 runs being scored in the day at an average rate of 11.16 runs per over.

Tim Dellor of Lord's made a special appearance acting in the capacity of tournament referee, as well as running a coaching session the next day to cater for the Czechs eager to improve their techniques.

The Prague Cricket Club is proud of its record of introducing locals to the sport. In this tournament, to encourage as many as possible to take part, a bonus of 5 runs was given to every Czech-born player as an added incentive.

The cup holders MMB, formerly a team of Australians, sported local talent in the form of Janicek, Nadvornik and Pokludova who put on a good show with MMB being knocked out in the semi final.

The eventual winners were the Pakistanis who had looked good from the start, compiling the highest team total, 83 from 5 overs. Some fine blows were dealt during the day, with the most notable a towering six that cleared the no.22 tram.

President of the Czech Cricket Association Tomas Kral said, "This has been a wonderful day for cricket in this country and we hope to keep the momentum going."

That certainly looks likely to be the case, with the club's intention of having a new pitch ready by next year as well as beginning to regularly host visting teams from abroad.