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Message
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 It
gives me great pleasure to welcome participants in the 16th Chiang Mai International
Cricket Sixes to Thailand and to Chiang Mai. As one of the longest running
international sports tournaments held annually in the Kingdom, Chiang Mai
Sixes is an important contributor not only in terms of tourism, but also
to Thailand's presence in the world of international sports.
Although cricket has not so far been considered as a Thai sport, I know that you have been trying to change that. We applaud your efforts! The Sawasdee Cricket program now flourishing in an increasing number of Bangkok and Chiang Mai primary schools, was started through the efforts and generosity of Chiang Mai Sixes's participants. We are keen to encourage activities with positive benefits for the development of our school children. And cricket with its emphasis on fair play, team spirit, and good hand-eye co-ordination, not only provides a healthy outlet for youthful energy, but can help to keep youngsters away from drugs and other destructive influences. The Sawasdee Cricket program for young children that you helped to start has, in three short years, attracted the support of important bodies like UNICEF Thailand, and cricket's official representatives in this area of the world, the Asian Cricket Council. Most importantly perhaps several thousand Thai school children have already discovered the joys of playing the game. I hope that in the not too distant future Thailand will be able to recognise and support a genuinely homegrown national cricket team competing on the international stage. In closing, may I personally wish you all a very enjoyable, safe and successful week of sport and holiday in Chiang Mai. Mr. Sonthaya Kunplome |
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