Settler sides square up for day of cricket

EIGHT teams from Settler stock will gather for a duel on the village green tomorrow when the 20th edition of the Salem Settler Family six-a-side takes place at the country club about 20km from Grahamstown.

First played in 1979, the biennial tournament has become a popular gathering, attracting family members from all over South Africa, and sometimes the world, for a day of competitive, yet fun cricket.

This time the Biggses will be defending the title for the first time, after they won their maiden tournament by defeating the Fords two years ago. The Fords will be back for another tilt at the crown, having reached the last two finals.

Packed with young guns, plus a single measure of experience, they should have an excellent chance of making up for past disappointments.

The eight teams have been divided into two groups, with each side playing three matches.

The group winners will contest the final.

There have been some memorable contests over the years, ever since the Wilmots won the inaugural title in 1979.

They and the Emslies are the only teams to have appeared in every tournament since then, and they will again tomorrow.

The other families who took part in 1979 were the Bradfields, Claytons, Longs and Purdons. ý