Chiang Mai Cricket Sixes

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

24/11/2024

Pattaya CC win the 2024 Royal Sixes

It was a case of the usual suspects, as Pattaya CC lifted the Royal Sixes crown at majestic Royal Chiang Mai on Saturday to add to their bulging trophy cabinet. The team from the coastal city defeated local favourites Lanna CC with five balls to spare in the final as they reached the target of 55.

Much of Pattayas success can be attributed to Luke Stokes, who retired on 31 or more in his four innings, with ample backup in all departments in a fine all-round team performance. They had earlier seen off last year’s Gymkhana Sixes champions, Lamphun, in their semifinal clash. Lamphun had been surprisingly defeated in their final group game by the TJCDF.

The youngsters of that side then went on to lose gamely to Lanna CC for whom Chris Coombes rolled back the years with a virtuoso performance with the bat. The game to decide fifth and sixth place matched up the Black Swans and Shrewsbury Sloggers. Both sides contributed richly on and off the pitch before the Swannies chased down 31 to avoid the wooden spoon.

The event, arranged as a replacement for the Gymkhana Sixes was a great success, played in a wonderful setting, with teams gathering on Sunday lunchtime at the Gymkhana Club to see for themselves the damage caused by the recent floods.

Full photos can be found at: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/15PCcz99xk/?mibextid=K35XfP

19/11/2024

ROYAL CRICKET SIXES TO BE HELD ON 23 NOVEMBER AS GYMKHANA RECOVERS

Sixes cricket returns to Chiang Mai on Saturday but at a new venue. Following the cancellation of the Gymkhana Sixes after the terrible flooding the Royal Cricket Sixes will be held at Royal Chiang Mai Golf Resort with six teams competing including three visiting teams.

Lamphun won last year's Gymkhana Sixes and thanks must go to Cher and the boys who spent their holidays helping with the recovery effort at Gymkhana Club. They cleared the pitch and the nets of 20 cm of mud before along with a team of caddies they started to clear the outfield.

Thankfully soon the ground was dry enough for the machines to take over and the cricket ground is now fully clear of mud and ready for turf to be laid. It will be a long and costly process but all the teams here this weekend will be visiting the newly reopened Gymkhana Clubhouse and supporting the other bars that suffered from the flooding.

21/10/2024

Gymkhana Club Cricket Ground Update

20 October 2024

It has now been two weeks since the devastating floods affected Chiang Mai and the Gymkhana Club. The week after offered no possible safe access to anywhere near the cricket structures as the whole area was covered in thick mud.

Indeed, as the attached image shows, the water initially reached the height of Cher’s neck against the Matchbox. The savage of the water and mud carried the heavy roller a distance of 30 yards from its original position. One can only imagine the surprise of a kind lady who got in touch with the club to inform them that the new scoreboard was in her garden. She lives 3km from the ground. In short, it was brutal and caused substantial damage to many businesses in the city.

Through the outstanding efforts of those who were devastated by what they were met with, the area around the bar and Matchbox has gradually been restored. Fortunately, no major structural damage has been caused.

The wicket, as can be seen be a further image, looks to be in miraculously decent condition thanks to it being cleaned by a high-pressure hose and plenty of elbow grease. The outfield has had some of the mud spread around to try and level it out.

It is now a process of waiting to assess the situation once it gradually dries and the grass has the opportunity to grow now some slightly drier weather appears to be on the way as the rainy season gives way to Thai winter. It is an unprecedented situation, and it has been agreed to give things a chance to develop naturally before delving into the finances that have been carefully accrued over the last five years.

The Gymkhana Sixes scheduled for the last weekend in November were cancelled, correctly as it transpires, a couple of weeks ago. It is unlikely that there will be cricket on the ground before the New Year, though efforts will be made if it is deemed possible and financially viable.

We will deliver another update in a few weeks from now when things will hopefully be a little clearer. Thanks, in the meantime, for your patience.

07/10/2024

Flooding Update from Chiang Mai

As many of you will be aware Chiang Mai has been badly hit by recent flooding caused by the River Ping overflowing to unprecedented levels. This has caused devastation to local homes and businesses.

It has also had catastrophic affects to the Gymkhana Club and all its facilities, including the cricket ground. Consequently, the Gymkhana Sixes which were due to take place on the 23rd and 24th of November will not take place at the ground. Other options of an alternative venue are being investigated and considered.

We ask for respect and patience until it is possible to assess the situation and the full extent of the damage. Our thoughts are with all Chiang Mai residents and businesses affected by this natural disaster.

Committee
Chiang Mai International Cricket Sixes

17/09/2024

GET WELL SOON HAGAR
We have just learnt that Chiang Mai Sixes Head Umpire Paul 'Hagar' Jones is still struggling with his health and is enduring another spell in ICU. The committee, players. officials and supporters of the Chiang Mai Sixes are all on your side Hagar and we all send our good wishes for your full recovery. We are all thinking of you here in Chiang Mai and all over the world. This photo was taken at a London Sixes reunion held in 2021 and the Sixes family is all hoping you will be back on your feet soon.

22/07/2024

The Sixes family mourns the loss of two stalwarts, Johnny Bell and Tony Gough

The Chiang Mai International Cricket Sixes has been deeply saddened by the loss of two gentlemen in recent weeks, who both played a significant part in the history of the tournament over many years.

Johnny Bell was a truly memorable character, superb company and raconteur who lived an incredible life to the full and who enriched the lives of many both on and off the field.

Johnny, originally from Marchwiel in North Wales organised many amazing cricket festivals at his family home of Marchwiel Hall, which regularly attracted Test stars. An excellent cricketer in his own right, he played for Wales in the ICC Trophy of 1979, the qualifiers to the ICC World Cup, where his nation narrowly missed out on a place to Sri Lanka. He was also a member of the MCC and went on many playing tours with the club.

He captained Marchwiel to victory at Lord’s in the Village Knockout competition in 1980 and 1984. Johnny played in the first ever Sixes staged at the Gymkhana Club 1988. He continued travelling as a player, with Bob Cooke’s Drifters among others, with whom he was a Cup winner in 1992, as well as an playing his part as an umpire.

He became organiser and sponsor of Marchwiel Outlaws, who were Cup runners-up to Surrey Vagrants in 2005 and then Bowl winners the following year after defeating Lord’s Taverners. He was an extremely popular figure around the tournament, introducing Paul ‘Hagar’ Jones to it, for which we owe him a huge debt of gratitude.

The big fella moved to Pattaya to live permanently, remaining a regular at the Sixes, with his side continuing to compete for a few years after. His final visit was in 2018, and while his condition meant he could not return Johnny watched the live feeds and was always supportive of those involved in the running of the tournament.

Tony Gough was another there from the beginning, becoming the Sixes Head Umpire for many years until handing over the baton to Hagar, who we thank for helping us with information on the two gents.

Tony was a native of Bridgnorth in Shropshire and played Shropshire league for his hometown club as a young man. A slow pie chucker was his style, ideal for future umpiring some of the participants at Chiang Mai. He went to college in Bangor, North Wales and qualified as a teacher, eventually moving to Hong Kong as a civilian teacher with British armed forces. He moved to KGV grammar school in HK becoming one of the doyens of local umpiring. Tony retired from KGV to live in Phuket with his beloved Norma.

A wonderful gentleman, high class official, and popular leader with many friends attached to the tournament, his dedication to umpiring is shown when in 1991 just four of them stood throughout the event. Hagar was in his first tournament and is sadly the only one still with us.

Both gentlemen enriched the lives of many who met them in Chiang Mai. They loved cricket and our Sixes tournament. They will both be sadly missed, with the 2025 Sixes paying tribute to them fully in the magazine, and on the opening day’s memorial service.

07/04/2024