Chiang Mai Cricket Sixes

14/03/2025

Fixtures for the first three days of the 2025 Chiang Mai International Cricket Sixes are now on the website and can be seen by clicking below on the image.

09/03/2025

Fantastic Fun as Muanggee School Celebrates at the 2025 Sawasdee Cup

The 2025 Sawasdee Cup saw Muanggee School emerge victorious in the younger and elder competitions, building on their success a year earlier on a glorious day at Ban Paen Pittayakhom (High School) in Lamphun.

The day marked the start of the 25th-anniversary celebrations since the formation of junior cricket in northern Thailand with Chris Dodd and coach Sanankhong Yotchettha (Cher), along with others who have graduated through the junior ranks, continuing to do a magnificent job at Lamphun Cricket Chiang Mai and build on the fine work of their predecessors Eric Little, Maurice Bromley and Martin Papworth among others.

The younger competition, which was played in a group format between three teams, saw Kamfang being judged to have been the best girl player with Silar the best boy player. Silar can only attend coaching occasionally but showed his potential to his peers and the watching crowd. Like many who played in the Sawasdee Cup, he was given his first taste of competitive cricket.

In the elder competition, Kwan was the leading girl with Lao leading the accolades for the boys in the five-team format. The trophies were presented by an enormously proud teacher from Muanggee School.

The Sawasdee Cup was once again sponsored and paid for by the TJCDF (Thailand Junior Cricket Development Fund), with each of the participants being given an anniversary shirt.

Monies will be raised towards the fund at the forthcoming Chiang Mai International Cricket Sixes, where donations are welcome. Any project in Thailand, with priority given to those connected to cricket in the north, and the emphasis being on ‘juniors’, can apply for TDCDF funding by sending a fully costed plan and submitting receipts by emailing Rob ‘Chops’ Bernard at [email protected].

04/03/2025

Gymkhana Ground Update
March 2025

The anticipation and excitement continue to grow as the Gymkhana Cricket Ground will be staging the 2025 Chiang Mai International Cricket Sixes in less than four weeks from now. The incredible recovery and restoration of the ground following the unprecedented damaging floods has the ground looking in tremendous shape thanks to the miraculous efforts of all involved in the salvage operation.

There is still a bit to complete regarding the laying of new turf once the tournament is over, but every effort is being made to ensure that the playing surface is as close to pristine condition as possible when play commences.

We are glad to report that the new turf has taken well, with lots of watering and care, receiving its first proper cut at the weekend using the club’s large mower.

Our two GoFundMe pages no longer accept donations as the cash is transferred and logistics are dealt with. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all your generosity. We will still be accepting cash donations at the Sixes, which will be ringfenced for further works over the next twelve months. Those wishing to send donations directly to the Sixes bank account will require the following details.

Bank: SIAM COMMERCIAL BANK, THA PHAE ROAD, CHIANG MAI
Account Name: Ms Janet Louise Kirwin / Mr Graham Appleton / Mr Richard David Lockwood
Account Number: 501-425175-8 - Swift Code: SICOTHBK

Many thanks once again. We look forward to welcoming those of you who can attend in a few weeks.

22/02/2025

Julian Fagan RIP

The Sixes are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Julian Fagan. Julian tragically passed away following an incident while swimming and never recovered.

He and his twin brother Ian, along with their mate Angus Leslie arrived at the 2018 Sixes, to play for the Gymkhana Cavaliers who gratefully accepted an influx of youth and ability, into their ageing side.

It’s fair to say that Julian quickly made his mark, by retiring on 31 on his Sixes debut. It would be the first of 9 retirements over an incredible Sixes career of 23 appearances, accumulating 445 runs with an average of 31.78, as well as taking 6 wickets. He scored a boundary every 2.14 balls faced.

He helped the Cavaliers to win the Bowl in 2019, reach the Shield final in 2023, and then incredibly the team reached the second round of the Cup in 2024. A staggering achievement that the stalwart Cavaliers were extremely proud to point out. Julian’s final knock at the Sixes came in the Cup game against NCL Thunder when he scored 33 in an opening stand of 51 with twin Ian against the champions.

Ian summed him up as a cricketer. “Jules had a two-step stutter run up and the quickest arm known to God. The pace he generated for zero technique had everyone pleading with him to get lessons and take cricket seriously. He was a natural freak at everything he did”.

The touching tributes paid to Julian on Facebook are testimony to how much his company was enjoyed by his teammates and all of the Sixes family.

We offer our deepest condolences to Julian’s partner, Ian, his family, and all of Julian’s teammates and friends.

17/02/2025

A nice heart warming message from the team at the excellent BBC Podcast, Tailenders, wishing the Sixes and Gymkhana Club well in our recovery efforts on their episode “Embrace the Cricket” which came out on December 5th 2024.

You can listen via the link below and by scrolling forward to 1:04:56, although the whole episode is also well worth a listen. Many thanks to Raj from Blythswood for bringing it to our attention.

Forget the cold, rain and short days and get ready for a bumper week of cricket.

07/02/2025

Gymkhana Club Cricket Ground Update

With 7 weeks to go until we gather once more in Chiang Mai ahead of the 2025 Sixes, we are pleased to report that the turf continues to bind and grow at the Gymkhana Cricket Ground.

In addition, the area that has not yet been turfed has shown signs of recovery that were not forecast. We will do everything possible to ensure that this area is in as good a condition as possible when we get underway. Many continued thanks to Serd and his helpers and everyone who has helped turn around what was looking like a disastrous situation, putting in hours beyond the call of duty at the ground. Thank you.

In the meantime, you can play your part by ensuring that we continue to raise enough cash to finish the job once the tournament is completed. Many thanks for the amazing generosity already shown. Your assistance is greatly appreciated.

Those who wish to contribute can do so by clicking on the links below, or by sending money directly to the Sixes bank account, with the details as follows.

https://gofund.me/66cf8630

https://gofund.me/f178d9ac

Bank: SIAM COMMERCIAL BANK, THA PHAE ROAD, CHIANG MAI
Account Name: Ms Janet Louise Kirwin / Mr Graham Appleton / Mr Richard David Lockwood
Account Number: 501-425175-8 - Swift Code: SICOTHBK

Thanks again. We look forward to seeing as many of you as possible in less than two months.

12/01/2025

A New Year with lots of New Turf at the Gymkhana in Chiang Mai

Efforts continue following the festive period to restore the Gymkhana Cricket Ground to its former glory recommenced.

Everything is currently on schedule, in what was always going to be a two-year effort. The ninth fairway of the golf course which forms much of our outfield away from the Matchbox side has received new turf, while other areas of the ground have also been added to.

Thankfully, some grass is coming through on the areas that won't receive new turf in time for the 2025 Sixes. We reckon around 70% of the ground will be complete. The rest will be prepared to the highest standards possible. Watering is the main issue which means that not everything can be completed at the same time. Constant care and attention are being given to the ground in the lead-up to the tournament at the end of March.

We thank everyone for their kind messages and generous donations. There is still time to donate so that everything will be eventually completed.

You can do so by clicking on the GoFundMe links below.

https://gofund.me/66cf8630

https://gofund.me/f178d9ac

Alternatively, you can send money directly to the Sixes bank account.

Bank: SIAM COMMERCIAL BANK, THA PHAE ROAD, CHIANG MAI
Account Name: Ms Janet Louise Kirwin / Mr Graham Appleton / Mr Richard David Lockwood
Account Number: 501-425175-8 - Swift Code: SICOTHBK

24/12/2024

The Heroes of the Restoration. Younger Version!

As we celebrate Christmas, it feels appropriate that we give our thanks to the youngsters who have helped in the restoration operation. The cricket ground and nets of the Gymkhana Club were devastated by the damage of the floods and the deposits of thick silt. This has affected our junior cricketers as much as anyone.

The Sixes tournament as well as the TJCDF support junior cricket development, with those who play regularly at the Gymkhana, most noticeably from Chiang Mai and Lamphun being significant beneficiaries.

Not having a cricket ground is affecting their development and how often they can play. While some venues still stage local games, their location sees reduced numbers taking part compared to when they enjoy their familiar surroundings of the Gymkhana.

The efforts of some of the young men who began their cricketing education as juniors and regularly take on and beat adult sides have been outstanding. Local cricket, other tournaments, and the Sixes have encouraged their development with some becoming coaches as well as learning how to score and umpire.

Their enthusiasm is there to be seen whenever they are present at the ground. They are invaluable members of the Chiang Mai cricketing community and have become good friends.

In recent weeks they have spent their spare time helping with the removal of mud from the ground and restoring the nets while carrying out general maintenance and helping enormously in the cleanup operation.

We sincerely hope that these fine young individuals continue to be involved with cricket in the region for many years to come and thank them for their outstanding commitment.

Please feel free to add a donation via the links, or alternatively send directly to the Sixes account below.

gofund.me/3fd5ffdf

gofund.me/66cf8630

Many thanks for the generosity received thus far.

Bank: SIAM COMMERCIAL BANK, THA PHAE ROAD, CHIANG MAI
Account Name: Ms Janet Louise Kirwin / Mr Graham Appleton / Mr Richard David Lockwood
Account Number: 501-425175-8 - Swift Code: SICOTHBK

19/12/2024

The hard work continues at the Gymkhana Cricket Ground

Since our last update, the hard work has continued to flourish at the cricket ground at the Gymkhana Club in Chiang Mai.

It is paying off in leaps and bounds as the bare expanses are starting to be covered with new turf thanks to an outstanding team effort for which we are grateful to everyone who has played their part. It is even receiving its first gentle roll along with as much water as is available as it starts its bedding in process.

As Christmas approaches somewhere in the region of 1800m² has been laid. A magnificent effort, with more to come in the timeframe available. It should be remembered that this was always going to be up to a two-year project to complete.

For those who wish to contribute in the great efforts to restore our magnificent ground, it is possible to add a donation to the appeal.

You can do so by clicking on the GoFundMe links below.

https://gofund.me/66cf8630

https://gofund.me/f178d9ac

Alternatively, you can send money directly to the Sixes bank account.

Bank: SIAM COMMERCIAL BANK, THA PHAE ROAD, CHIANG MAI
Account Name: Ms Janet Louise Kirwin / Mr Graham Appleton / Mr Richard David Lockwood
Account Number: 501-425175-8 - Swift Code: SICOTHBK

Many thanks to everyone who has contributed so far. With the donations sent directly to the Sixes account, we are about halfway to our target.

12/12/2024

The Heroes of the Restoration. Adult Version!

It is very difficult to put into words just how a huge task was ahead following the utter devastation suffered by the Gymkhana Club and the Cricket Ground. Thankfully, Chiang Mai has some genuine heroes who love the place and have given immense time and effort, both physical and mental, for the restoration to get underway properly.

The hours and effort that our loyal committee men continue to put in at the ground is immense, as is that of groundsman Serd and his wife Nok. The lady caddies have shown incredible willingness and fortitude in their efforts, helping remove the thick layer of mud and learning how to lay turf. It should be remembered that they are without paid work as the golf course is closed, and many mentioned suffered huge damage to their homes and possessions.

The Sixes would like to offer huge thanks to our local expert for his help and advice on the ground, which has allowed the work to run as smoothly as possible along with the others who have given up their time. And of course, the young cricketers who we shall feature next time.

Our appeal has got off to a great start in its opening two weeks, but we continue to welcome and require donations which can be made by clicking on the GoFundMe links below for those with UK or Australian bank accounts.

https://gofund.me/66cf8630

https://gofund.me/f178d9ac

Alternatively, you can send money directly to the Sixes bank account.

Bank: SIAM COMMERCIAL BANK, THA PHAE ROAD, CHIANG MAI
Account Name: Ms Janet Louise Kirwin / Mr Graham Appleton / Mr Richard David Lockwood
Account Number: 501-425175-8 - Swift Code: SICOTHBK

The project is likely to take up to two years to complete owing to the climate and logistics, but every donation helps to keep us on target.

Many thanks

10/12/2024

The new Sixes scoreboard completes its incredible journey

The Chiang Mai Cricket Sixes were extremely fortunate to be donated funds to purchase a new electronic scoreboard and the board had already completed a trip to Bangkok to finish it's programming when it was washed away by the flood at Gymkhana Club.

Located weeks later in a local house it has been in Bangkok for repair and testing and is now finally back in place at Gymkhana Club with new electronics installed by 121 digital and all the mud cleaned out. It will be ready for use at the 2025 Sixes.

06/12/2024

GREEN SHOOTS OF RECOVERY AT GYMKHANA CLUB

Thank you to all those who have donated to The Gymkhana Recovery Fund as your generosity is already paying dividends. The first grass has been laid today thanks to Serd, Nok and their team of caddies turned turf layers. We have taken the first step towards the renovation of our favourite cricket ground.

06/12/2024

Gymkhana Cricket Ground Restoration Appeal

The Miraculous Tale of the New Scoreboard

Last year, a generous donation allowed the Sixes to obtain a new electric scoreboard, which was planned to be unveiled at the Gymkhana Sixes in November. Then came the floods and huge devastation.

There was a wait without anyone knowing the full extent of the huge damage that had been caused, until the water subsided and even then the mud made it too dangerous to get access. When it became available it became apparent that the new scoreboard was missing.

A few days later Richard Lockwood overheard a phone call being received by Gymkhana Club staff. A woman on the other end of the line lived over 3km away from the ground. She said she had a big board in her garden with numbers on it and insisted it was moved. It had been carried there in the flood. It wasn’t established whether she fancied operating it for us.

Enter George Appleton, his truck, and a team of enthusiastic young helpers connected to Lamphun Cricket. They went along, somehow got the scoreboard onto the open back of the truck, tied it down and took it back home. It is currently being repaired in Bangkok ready to make its debut next April.

The appeal for donations towards restoration is going very well and we thank everyone for your generosity so that we can return the ground to its former glory, which is likely to take 2 years to complete. Our appeal fund stands at around THB 255,000 after conversion rates. We are aiming for THB 900,000.

Those who wish to donate from Australia or the UK can do so via GoFundMe on the following links.

https://gofund.me/66cf8630

https://gofund.me/f178d9ac

Those who wish to send cash directly to the Sixes account can use the following details:

Bank: SIAM COMMERCIAL BANK, THA PHAE ROAD, CHIANG MAI

Account Name: Ms Janet Louise Kirwin / Mr Graham Appleton / Mr Richard David Lockwood

Account Number: 501-425175-8 - Swift Code: SICOTHBK

Many thanks once again, everyone.

02/12/2024

Chiang Mai Gymkhana Cricket Ground Restoration Appeal Update

We have had a wonderful start to our fundraising appeal seeing kind donations arrive from all around the world. Progress on the Australian and UK GoFundMe pages can be seen in the previous couple of posts. Many thanks to those who have sent their donations. The Sixes Committee thanks you for your generosity.

Other sums are arriving directly at our Thai bank account. Details for those who wish to send money to it can do so using the following details:
Bank: SIAM COMMERCIAL BANK, THA PHAE ROAD, CHIANG MAI
Account Name: Ms Janet Louise Kirwin / Mr Graham Appleton / Mr Richard David Lockwood
Account Number: 501-425175-8 - Swift Code: SICOTHBK

Thank you all once again

02/12/2024

The Chiang Mai International Cricket Sixes has been held at the Gym… Michael Burns needs your support for Gymkhana Club Cricket Ground Restoration, Chiang Mai

02/12/2024

The Gymkhana Club has been home to the Chiang Mai Internationa… Rob Bernard needs your support for Restoration of the Gymkhana Club Cricket Ground, Chiang Mai

28/11/2024

Chiang Mai Sixes Gymkhana Ground Restoration Appeal

Every year the Chiang Mai International Cricket Sixes attracts around thirty competing teams, both men and women, to the annual event along with friends and supporters. The tournament is staged at the Gymkhana Club Cricket Ground in the city, which also stages regular local and junior matches.

In October 2024, Chiang Mai was hit by some of the worst flooding on record with homes, properties, and businesses bearing the brunt of the damage. The Ping River deposited many inches of thick silt and mud on the Gymkhana Club grounds causing utter devastation. It caused unprecedented damage to the ground with much of our equipment being ruined or requiring extensive repairs.

The committee has come up with a costed plan to put things right. It will cost in the region of 900,000 Baht, which is around GBP 21,000 or AUD 42,000 if everything goes to plan.

Work has already got underway with the silt and mud being removed. Timings are also problematic, as the laying of new turf, which forms part of the plan, needs lots of water which might not be freely available as the region now enters its dry season. The ground and golf course are without an irrigation system, so it is likely to take up to two years to complete fully, owing to the seasons and climate in northern Thailand.

It has taken many manhours of work to date, with cleaning materials, tools, and equipment hire, which have already been paid for. We require a second-hand tractor, new fridges, esky’s and bar and office furniture, with the costs for laying and watering the new turf, and repairs to the roller, pump, new scoreboard, as well as equipment hire to be paid for. It is going to be a herculean task, but we are determined to succeed.

We are appealing to anyone who can donate whatever amount, to help us get the beautiful ground back to its previous best. There are three ways you can do this.

There is a GoFundMe page for both Australia and the UK where we have trusted individuals, Stewart Ashby and Michael Burns collecting the money with Rob Bernard overseeing the process, so that we can provide regular progress updates. You can click on the links below to be redirected to the pages if you wish to donate.

https://gofund.me/66cf8630

https://gofund.me/f178d9ac

Alternatively, you can send money directly to the Sixes Bank Account. If you choose this option, please drop us a line so that we can ensure that the cash goes to the ringfenced fund. The details are here.

Bank: SIAM COMMERCIAL BANK, THA PHAE ROAD, CHIANG MAI

Account Name: Ms Janet Louise Kirwin / Mr Graham Appleton / Mr Richard David Lockwood
Account Number: 501-425175-8
Swift Code: SICOTHBK