Tri-Nation tourney for softball cricket

CRICKET: Softball cricket and it's lovers will receive a tremendous boost, as elaborate plans are made to conduct a Tri- Nation limited overs tournament involving Sri Lanka, India and Bangladesh next year.

The dates are yet to be confirmed, but the tournament will definitely take place next year.

This was disclosed by Media Minister and the President of the Softball Cricket Federation Anura Priyadharshana Yapa at a press briefing held with regard to the Hutchinson sponsored and Softball Cricket Federation conducted all Island softball tournament which is scheduled to begin next month.

"Softball cricket, I believe is the base for cricket. It is difficult to find any cricketer who has not gone through the process of playing with the softball, prior to facing the hardball", said the Minister.

The 'Hutch' softball tournament offers big cash prizes with the winner receiving Rs.200,000.00 and the runner-up Rs.150,000.00. The Man of the final and the Man of the Series will receive a sum of Rs. 50,000 each and the Best Bowler and Batsman will receive Rs.25,000.00 each.

Over 1800 players from 300 teams from Colombo, Galle, Kandy and Kurunegala are expected participate.

It will be a good opportunity for players who excel at the tournament to catch the selectors eye for the coming Tri-Nation tournament.

- RA