Multicultural Cricket Challenge, Sydney: Inaugural event to celebrate culture

The iconic Sydney Cricket Ground has a treasured place in cricketing history and is now set to play a role in celebrating the diverse cultures passionate about the summer sport.

The iconic Sydney Cricket Ground has a treasured place in cricketing history, witnessing first hand the magic of legends such as Sachin Tendulkar, Brian Lara, Dennis Lillee and Steve Waugh.

Now, the stadium is set to play a key role in celebrating the diverse cultures whose passion and dedication brings cricket ovals to life across NSW each summer.

SCG Cricket, with support from Cricket NSW and Multicultural NSW, will launch Sydney’s first Multicultural Cricket Challenge from December 27.

The Multicultural Cricket Challenge will be held in December.

The three-day tournament will feature up to 40 teams of men and women cricketers of diverse cultural backgrounds, such as Sri Lanka, India, Pakistan, New Zealand, African, Australian and First Nations, who will pad up for two days of cricket at Blacktown before a final day of celebrations at Drummoyne Oval.

Each team will play at least four matches in a dynamic 100-ball format, taking place over 20 five-ball overs, with other rule modifications including a restricted bowler run-up and an Eliminator Over in case of a tie.

A cross-section of cricketers will then be chosen for the All-Star Invitational Teams which will get the chance to play on the hallowed turf of the Sydney Cricket Ground in January.

Pat Cummins has put his support behind the event. Picture: Indranil Mukherjee

SCG Cricket chairman Neil Maxwell said he had no doubt there had been challenges for people of different cultures growing up in Australian society, with this tournament to symbolise the breaking down of barriers and “enjoying sport for what it is”.

“Cricket breaks down barriers and creates lifelong friendships, and we want this event to reflect and celebrate the rich diversity of the communities that love it,” he said.

Australian fast bowler Pat Cummins also lent his support to the tournament.

“I think cricket is a great way to bring people of different cultures together to celebrate where we have come from and what makes Australia great,” he said.

To register a team, visit themccc.com.au.