French Cricket makes a comeback

As the grand finale to this weekend’s 2011 Piper Heidsieck French Fest, the raucous French Cricket Tournament makes its return, capturing the essence of the spirit and fun of Akaroa and French Fest

In the best traditions of 20/20 and backyard cricket, twelve invitational teams will compete in short matches in round-robin knockout style, with commentary provided by local entertainers The Outwits who will also be on hand to interview players during the game.

There are twelve teams entered into the event, including the inaugural champions, the New Zealand Army Band. They will be defending their title against the Mayor’s Invitational Team, teams from the Royal New Zealand Navy, Piper Heidsieck, and others. To help even the playing field, each team will feature a member of Canterbury’s first class cricket team, the Canterbury Wizards.

Mayor Bob Parker hopes as many people as possible will come along for a fun day on the French Cricket pitch. “Sports have for a long time bridged the gap between people and nations, and we invite everyone to celebrate this little slice of France in the middle of Canterbury,” he says.

The biennial French Fest has become Akaroa’s biggest weekend. This year’s event kicks off with a Fête de Rue street party on Friday 28 October, and provides audiences of all ages with a full weekend of entertainment, including food, music, dancing, comedy, a film screening, and more. The French Cricket match on Sunday 30 October will cap off the celebration of the Akaroa community and its unique French heritage.

Sunday 30 October – at the Akaroa Recreation Ground

9.30am – The French Cricket Tournament commences

1.30pm – Quarter finals are held

2.30pm – Semi-finals are held

3pm – Final is held

3.30pm – Prizegiving

For the full French Fest programme please visit www.frenchfest.co.nz