Japan's cricket squad to bowl in

Jan 3 2013

Japan's national cricket team is to visit Scotland where they will play a series of matches following a drive to support victims of the 2011 tsunami and earthquake.

Cricket for Smiles was set up by Japan Cricket Association head Alex Miyaji, who is part Scottish, to help children and communities affected by the disaster.

The Scottish Conservatives have teamed up with the organisation to appeal for equipment donations and MSP Alex Johnstone said Japan's national side will play matches in Scotland in early May.

Mr Johnstone said: "Mr Miyaji has done a magnificent job not only of promoting cricket as a sport in Japan but also charity work with those affected by the disaster.

"After the work to send out equipment to Japan, this is another important step in raising the profile of the charity's work."

More than 1,500 schools were seriously affected by the tsunami, with many losing sporting equipment.

Some of the country's sports facilities, including football and baseball pitches, still have temporary housing on them.

The Scottish fixtures have been timed to coincide with the 150th anniversary of cricket first being taken to Japan, where around 3,000 people currently play the sport.