Cricket has been called “the best way to spend four days” but Sixes cricket slices the sport down into a breathtakingly fast, action-packed spectacle full of big hits, athletic catches and quickfire bowling. Beijing Cricket Club will host the fourth annual Beijing Sixes at the end of this month. You may think you don’t like cricket, but this five-over format may just change your mind.

Who’s playing?
Sixteen teams from as far afield as Singapore (The Misfits), Hong Kong (DB Silverbackz), Manila (The Nomads) and a debutant team all the way from South Africa. There will also be local flavor with the Beijing Cricket League teams coming out in force.  Oh, and some teams from Shanghai.

What if I just want to watch?
Perfect. There will be a whole slips cordon of food and beverage outlets. The games are quick enough that there’s no drudgery.

Which teams should I look out for?
Beijing’s Phoenix, which won for the last two years, will want to make it three in a row. We’re told that their city rivals (Kremlin) and Shanghai’s Daredevils want to turn their trophy hopes to ashes. 

Anything else I should know?
Two things. First, the cup is known as the Chandler Oberoi Cup in honor of a great man who supported the game here but passed away since last year’s tournament. Also, this year the tournament is lucky enough to have official Chinese umpires calling the shots.

Where is it?
Dulwich College in Shunyi.

When is it?
The last three days of June – the final takes place on the afternoon of July 1.

Is there any jargon that I can use to impress fellow spectators?

“pie thrower” – a bowler who is ineffective
“sledging” – things Australians say to Englishmen about their mothers, and vice versa
“dolly” – an easy catch
“duck” – when the batsman is removed without troubling the scorers

The Beijing Sixes take place from June 29-July 1. More details at www.bjcricketclub.org.

Click here to see the June issue of the Beijinger in full.

Photo courtesy of Beijing Cricket Club