Naoki Miyaji

The Japanese season, which extends from April to October, is well under way. Not only have the domestic competitions been in full swing, but Japan has had two tours from Australia’s Melbourne CC and the Ned Flanders XI from Queensland. The men’s national team has also taken part in the World Cricket League Division 5.

Robert Walters Japan KK continued their support of the men’s national team and enabled them to play in full coloured clothing for the first time.

The women’s national team will tour Shanghai in September, where they will take part in the six-a-side tournament, and will also play international matches against China and other touring nations. The Greg Chappell Cricket Centre Player of the Year Awards will be awarded at the annual JCA Awards in November to the best performed Japanese player in domestic and international cricket.

Japan one-day Championship (J1C)

1st Grade

Ichihara Sharks CC are top of the table but with four teams only one win behind. There have been many matches washed out due to rain, and with many a host of games still to come in August, the final standings are extremely unpredictable. The four top teams will advance to the semi-finals.

2nd Grade

University XI managed to surprise Paddy Foley’s CC and Adore CC surprised Fuji Far East CC are the joint leaders. The four top teams will advance to the semi-finals. The winner of 2nd Grade will automatically be promoted to 1st Grade in 2009. The runners up of 2nd Grade will also get a chance of promotion in the play-offs.

Japan Women’s One Day Cricket Championship

Adore CC and L-Wyverns CC have both made winner starts. The two are sure to prove to be the greatest threat to FLFL CC, the defending champions.

University Championship (Men)

Tokyo University of Technology CC are just ahead but have played more matches than the rest of the league. Chuo University CC and Aoyama Gakuin University CC are both unbeaten and have a good chance.

University Championship (Women)

Tokyo University of Technology CC is dominating and will be looking to finish unbeaten.

Japan Cup

A men’s knockout tournament will be held for the first time starting on September 15

Japan Women’s Cricket Tournament

The knockout tournament for the women’s clubs across Japan will be played August 23 and 24.