Following the recent earthquake and tsunami in Japan, the Japan Cricket Association is doing what they do best and trying to bring a smile back to the faces of the people impacted by the tragedy, particularly the kids, with their Cricket for Smiles campaign.

Between July and December, they plan to introduce 25,000 kids to cricket in the areas affected by the earthquake by holding fun coaching clinics somewhat modeled on the Sport For All programme in Shanghai. 

They need equipment and some cash but again true to form they are not asking for a lot. They are raising donations by handing out “Cricket For Smiles” iron-on patches. Every 80 RMB donation receives a patch and they hope as many cricketers as possible around the world wear the patches on their cricket shirts.

In 2008, the Japanese cricketers and their sponsors were very big supporters of the Shanghai Cricket Club’s own Sichuan earthquake appeal and last year Japan Cricket’s CEO joined on the visit to the school.

The Shanghai Cricket Club encourages all member clubs and associate teams to commit to this worthy cause.

For more information or to make a donation, please contact the Shanghai Cricket Club here.