The crack of leather on willow. An unmistakable sound of an Australian summer, the national sport of cricket being played in grounds around the country. Of course Australia does not hold the exclusive rights to this most gentlemanly of sports. It is also claimed by countries such as, England, Sri Lanka, India, Pakistan, South Africa, the West Indies, Bangladesh and Fiji.

Fiji? Yes. Although not recognized as a test-playing nation, Fiji actually has competitive cricket competition. True to their respective nations’ sporting heritage, a group of CQU Fiji International Campus (CQUFIC) students have bravely entered the often fiercely competitive realm of Suva cricket. With many of the local teams sporting national representatives, the side has struggled at times suffering cruel defeats. To their credit however they have not lost hope or character and play with determination, never giving up until the final ball is bowled.

Comprising mostly of students hailing from Bangladesh, the team also has members from Fiji, and a lone Aussie. They have shown constant commitment to the game, practicing diligently and improving constantly. Although not a chance for the cup, the boys have represented the University well, and most of all played in the true spirit of cricket.

=========Photo above: The CQUFIC cricket team at Albert Park, Suva, Fiji.============