Youngsters provide the foundation

The Bangkok Post has reported on the state of cricket in the Thailand, quoting the board’s Mohideen Kader.

“While many Thai youngsters are getting latched on to the game, Thailand is now busy preparing to stage three Asian tournaments, including an Asian Women's competition in which an all Thai team will take part,” he said. “The tourneys are being lined up to be held before the end of the year. They include an Under-17 boys competition, a seniors tournament, in which Thais and sons of expatriates (who have the required residential qualifications according ICC rules) will take part.”

''The progress achieved in spreading cricket in the Kingdom has been tremendous,'' said Kader. ''Girls from schools and universities have taken to the game.” The paper estimates there are 2800 cricketers in the country

“Encouraged by the development of cricket, we have schools which have included cricket in their curriculum,'' said Kader. ''That's the exciting keenness which has been created for the sport. It is true we cannot create champions overnight but step by step, cricket is being embraced by Thais.”

There are two grounds in Chiang Mai and three turf pitches in Bangkok, with the possibility of a fourth being set up at Thammasat University.