Cricket and culture together at community ‘big friendly’ 

The Hibiscus Coast Cricket Club’s Sri Lankan Community Team – all the players represented the Coast last season.

A cricket match that is not just about batting, bowling and fielding, but is a celebration of diversity, culture and community spirit will take place in Stanmore Bay at the end of this month.

The game is ‘a big friendly’ between the Hibiscus Coast Cricket Club’s Sri Lankan Community Team, and the NZ Arasan Superkings North (a South Asian team). 

Hibiscus Coast Cricket Club director of cricket, Ramesh Lakmal, says the club has a tradition of developing and nurturing cricket talent from diverse nationalities. He says the upcoming game will embrace that same spirit of community and sportsmanship.

Although it’s a “friendly” match, it will also be super competitive, Ramesh says.

Following the game, there will be a community cultural gathering with activities, games, music, and food. 

“What makes this event unique is its open invitation to everyone in the community, making it a fantastic opportunity to bring people together for a day of fun and celebration,” Ramesh says. 

The match takes place at Stanmore Bay Park on Brightside Road on Saturday, September 30. There is an opening ceremony at 10.30am, and the game starts at 11am. Thirty overs per side will be played. At 4pm there will be a community barbecue, music, kids’ games and prizegiving. 

Info: https://hibiscuscricket.co.nz/