Maccabiah cricket tournament gets underway on Sunday

Although the Maccabiah Games opening ceremony only takes place on Monday, the cricket competition will get underway on Sunday. Cricket enthusiasts are in for a real treat over the next fortnight, with 24 games of cricket being played, featuring players from five countries in both a senior and junior competition.

The senior action on Sunday takes place at Hadar Yosef Stadium, where Israel play India, and South Africa take on England. Israel will have to be at their very best against an Indian team which features a number of players with Ranji Trophy experience. South Africa, with a very powerful batting line up in which Adam Bacher, a player who has played 19 test matches and 13 one-day internationals for South Africa, will the prized wicket for opposition bowlers, probably start as tournament favorites, but England, led by talented youngster Darren Gerrard, will be equally keen to get their tournament off to a winning start.

Sunday's junior action will be centered in Ashdod, where recent upgrades to the facilities make it a beautiful place to both play and watch cricket. A new pitch has been laid, the outfield is in pristine condition, and benches have been located under trees at numerous vantage points for spectators. The Israel U18 team, who have swept all before them in recent seasons in European tournaments, are expecting a tough challenge from the visiting countries. The first round of matches features Israel against England, and Australia play South Africa.

Matches, 50 overs in duration, start at 10:00. Entrance to the grounds is free of charge.