Batting practice Photo © ACF

Afghanistan's determination to consign the terror of the past three months to history is evident in the proposal of the country's Cricket Federation to send a team to take part in this year's Chiang Mai Sixes. The tournament, one of cricket's most popular amateur events, runs from April 1st to 6th at the Chiang Mai Gymkhana Club.

According to the tournament director, Maurice Bromley, Afghanistan's 900-odd cricketers are keen to get back to playing as soon as possible. "They are very keen to start playing cricket again after the terrors of all that bombing in their country," Bromley said. "All they need is some sponsorship to get them here, and a little help from the visa authorities."

A group in training Photo © ACF

The Afghanistan Cricket Federation was founded in 1995, and consisted of 28 registered clubs at the time the war broke out. They play for most of the year on pitches varying from concrete to matting and grass. Should an Afghan team go to Chiang Mai, it would be their first tournament abroad since the bombing.

The problem, however, is money. "We have played some cricket as a messenger of peace during the bombing," said the Federation's general manager Daud Khan. "But due to the problems, we do not have funds to play outside the country. However we have a very talented team. Therefore we must ask if you can help sponsor us. Surely it would be a great help for Afghan youth."

This year's Chiang Mai Tournament is expected to be the biggest ever, involving 30 teams from 11 countries. It is the 15th year that the event has been held. More information can be obtained from the tournament director (maurice@loxinfo.co.th) or if you are interested in sponsoring the Afghan team, contact Daud Khan (macro1@psh.paknet.com.pk).

© ACF