Toru the man to take cricket to Atiu

Cook Islands Cricket is backing cricketing stalwart Tutai Toru as their man to make the key push to establish senior cricket on Atiu Island which lies 187km northeast of Rarotonga.

Papa Toru is well respected in Rarotongan cricketing circles having played for the Avatiu Cricket Club for a number of years.

Now Papa Toru wants the people of Atiu to enjoy in the same experiences and opportunities that he has enjoyed through cricket in the past.

CICA Development Manager Shane Thompson credits Atiu school teacher Bazza Ross as being the instrumental force in creating the success of Atiu's ANZ Junior In Schools Cricket Programme involvement, where he has cultivated a crop of passionate and talented cricketers, so there is existing interest from the youth on the island which CICA believes can translate into senior playing numbers.

Mangaia and Mauke have stood out as prime examples of how a band of passionate volunteers can be successful in establishing a non traditional sport on outer islands.

Papa Toru, now armed with new cricket equipment is set to hold an exhibition evening where he will invite the public to attend and take part in a series of cricket games and skills looking to establishing men's and women's competitions.

If you are in Atiu or a Raro based Atiun who would like to contribute to establishing senior cricket then contact either Tutai Toru or Alister Stevic on +682 20744.