Back when the sun never set on the British Empire the colonial powers introduced many benefits to their involuntary subjects – the English language, steam engines, machine guns and most importantly, the epitome of everything British – the gentleman’s game of cricket. Ever since W. G. Grace became the first person to be accused of ball-tampering, the game has grown in popularity and indeed has outlasted the Raj which sponsored it. Thailand never succumbed to the questionable benefits of Empire (of the English variety, at least) but has been unable to resist the seductive sound of willow on leather.

Courtesy of the Phuket Cricket Union and funding from the Cricket Association of Thailand, the game has established itself firmly on the island thanks to the enthusiasm and hard work of the Union’s Management committee. Formed five years ago with the mandate of ‘fostering of cricket in Phuket and Southern Thailand, particularly in educational establishments’, the Union organises school coaching and plans a schools’ league next season. Last year we sent an under-15 team to Kuala Lumpur for the International Youth Tournament.

Of course older players are not neglected. We enjoy our cricket and the Sunday ‘Island Furniture Phuket Cricket League’ adds a competitive edge. It comprises five teams whose names are steeped in tradition like the country sides of yore – to whit: the Island Cricket Club, the Liquid Lounge Lizards, the Patong Cricket Club, the Phuket Cricket Army and the Village Cricket Team. “Lounge Lizards”! W. G. would turn in his grave.

The Union is based at Cherng Talay High School sports ground, courtesy of School Director Mr. Nachai, our president. Friendly games are played all year round, and this year we are introducing a pre-season 20/20 competition for teams from all corners of the globe. It was sponsored by Kingfisher Beer and held November 22 and 23 at Karon Stadium. We have had several Phuket touring sides competing all over Thailand and abroad, and there have been overseas teams coming here to play. Of course we play where we can on football pitches and school grounds often with a mat for a wicket. The errant bounce which results from these irregular surfaces can transform the most pedestrian of bowlers into a terrifying and unreadable force. A great leveler!

We have represented Southern Thailand in the last two Thai Regional Tournaments. We came third last year. The very successful annual Phuket International Cricket Sixes, held every April at Karon Stadium, is masterminded by the Asian Sixes Cricket Tour, and the Union. The event attracts teams from all over the World and was awarded the International Cricket Council 'Spirit of Cricket’ Award in 2005.

We also have great off-the-field social activities, when wives, girlfriends and families join us in the fun and enjoyment. The after match analysis over a couple of beers has always been an important part of the game’s tradition and is an area which is not neglected here in Phuket.

The Union’s greatest regret is that we have not yet been able to secure the twelve rai of flat land we need for a 'home ground'. For some time we have had a Working Party scouring the Island but so far the high price of land and its scarcity have proved to be insuperable difficulties. If anybody has any ideas, please let us know.

From the foregoing you will see that we are now very well established, and we extend a warm invitation to anybody who wants to play, officiate, or just turn up to spectate. You are all most welcome. We are always short of Match Officials, so if there are any potential Scorers or Umpires out there please get in touch.

If you are here on holiday and fed up with Beach Volleyball just contact us. We can help out with kit.