Cash boost could set up a fine Finnish

Women's cricket is set for a revival in Finland, thanks to an ICC initiative which aims to boost the sport there. Only 15 women play the game at senior level across the whole country - and there are no coaches - but a cash boost and an injection of spirit means the game could take off in a big way soon.

A total of eight schemes to promote women's cricket across Europe will share a cash-pot of US$15,000, donated by the ICC. Alongside the Finnish scheme, entitled Project Phoenix, the money will assist ventures in Switzerland, Germany, Spain and Jersey. Academies in the top three associate countries - Scotland, Ireland and the Netherlands - will also benefit.

Although there are few senior women in Finland, nearly 500 juniors play the game and, according to spokesperson Maija Scamans, the money will be crucial in reviving interest. "After a strong start some years ago, women's cricket has been in hibernation in Finland," she said, "and we hope the impact of the project will be huge.

"One of the long-term objectives is to lay the foundations to offer cricket as an option to school-age girls and create a path to the senior game."