Devoted local cricket fans and those wanting to find out more about the sport will have the opportunity to enjoy watching a cricket tournament held by the Sault Premier League (SPL) this weekend.
The tournament - organized by the SPL and the Sault Malayalee Association and supported by the Sault Ste. Marie and Area Local Immigration Partnership (LIP) - will be held on the grounds just east of the John Rhodes Community Centre facing Churchill Boulevard.
The tournament will run from 4 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Saturday July 27 and 7 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Sunday July 28.
Admission is free for spectators.
This is the first such event for the SPL.
“This is a highly anticipated cricket tournament that aims to bring together the local community through the love of cricket. This tournament is significant as it not only promotes physical fitness and sportsmanship but also serves as a cultural bridge, fostering unity and camaraderie among diverse community members,” an SPL release states.
The tournament includes eight teams - seven from the Sault, one from Sudbury.
“The public can come at any time and watch and if they want to know more about cricket we will be there to teach them more about the sport,” Jinse Sunny, Sault Malayalee Association general secretary told SooToday in a phone conversation Friday.
“Our final matches will be starting Sunday at 3 p.m. After the finals we’ll be presenting medals and a trophy for the winning team and awards for the best player, best batsman and best bowler,” Sunny said.
Ward 5 City Councillor Matthew Scott will be in attendance on behalf of Sault Mayor Matthew Shoemaker.
“This is a significant event that brings together cricket enthusiasts and members of our community for a day of friendly competition, sportsmanship, and cultural celebration. We invite local residents to join us as spectators and supporters and highlight the vibrant and diverse cultural fabric of Sault Ste. Marie,” an SPL release states.
For any inquiries or further information about the Sault Premier League cricket tournament, the Sault Malayalee Association can be contacted by email.