Kenyan cricket team in Rochdale

Date published: 12/07/2008

Sport For All (a local community group) is bringing international cricket to Rochdale; with the Kenya Cricket Association and Friends for Kenya they will host a reception for the Kenyan Cricket team on Saturday 19 July 2008.

The following day as part of their preparation for the 20/20 international qualifiers in August, the Kenyan Cricket team will play against a ‘SFA Select XI’ at Rochdale Cricket Club. The SFA select XI will comprise of  international cricketers and players from local leagues.

The cricket match will coincide with a community event at the Rochdale Cricket Club where people can enjoy a variety of activities including bouncy castles, face and henna painting, etc.

Mohammed Nazir on behalf of SFA explains: “We have made this a free event to encourage families and young people to attend. It is a unique opportunity for those who enjoy cricket to watch an international team play in the town.

Surinder Biant, the Chairman of Friends For Kenya commented: “I sincerely hope the people of Rochdale come and enjoy what promises to be a fun day out for everyone."

Councillor Mohammad Sharif, the portfolio holder for community cohesion, has pledged his support for the project. He commented: “It is not often a national cricket team visits Rochdale. Our town has beacon status for community cohesion and it is therefore a great privilege to have the national team of Kenya visiting our town.

"I hope the weather is good and we enjoy excellent cricket and a fun day out.”

Rochdale Cricket Club on Monday 21 July 2008 have organised an international X1 to play Kenya in a 50/50 over match.

• Venue: Rochdale Cricket Club, Bridgefold Road, Rochdale
• Time: Event starts at 11am, (doors open at 10.30am)
• Access: Minibuses to and from the cricket club from 10.30pm on Bulwer Street, Rochdale
• Cost: Free