Two New Zealand lawyers, Scott Donaldson from Invercargill and John Dean from Wellington, took part in the recent Lawyers Cricket World Cup.

With no New Zealand team in the contest, Mr Donaldson and Mr Dean played for the Commonwealth A team at the tournament, held in Brisbane from 31 December to 11 January.

Although the Commonwealth team did not reach the final, won by Pakistan who chased down India’s score in the final over, the tournament was “a huge success”, Mr Donaldson says.

The tournament has been held four times previously and is growing in popularity and extravagance every year. Teams this year included Pakistan, two from India, two from Australia, two from Sri Lanka, two from India, two from England and two Commonwealth teams. 

The tournament is as much a cricket tournament as it is a social gathering of cricket and law enthusiasts. The Australian hosts did a superb job of putting on several events during the tournament including multiple cocktail parties, dinners, ceremonies, a conference and a very impressive fireworks display.

Efforts are underway to put a strong New Zealand team together for the next tournament which will be held in Sri Lanka in April 2017. A provisional date has also been set for a trans-Tasman series against Australia to be held in January 2017.

Cricket players interested in playing for the New Zealand Lawyers Cricket Team should contact Scott Donaldson, Scottd@hewatgalt.co.nz, 022 623 0071. First or second grade playing cricketers or recently retired cricketers are being sought in the first instance, however Scott is keen to hear from anyone who wishes to participate. Participants must have a current practising certificate to be eligible.