It is appropriate that the new ‘Crackit Cricket Carnivals' kick off in the same week as Guy Fawkes, with plenty of fireworks likely in the primary cricket initiative.

Bay of Plenty Cricket Development Manager Tai Bridgman-Raison says the Crackit Cricket Carnivals are aimed at getting youngsters to play cricket by way of an introduction day, where they have an enjoyable experience in a fun environment.

'We hope that the participants will leave the day after having a great time and want to take up bat and ball on a regular basis.”

The first 'Crackit Cricket Carnival” will kick of this Wednesday at Rex Morepeth Park in Whakatane.

Bay of Plenty Cricket has received strong support from Eastern Bay schools, with Thornton (three teams) Allandale (two teams) Apanui (two teams) James Street, Waiotahi and TWTOP registered for the day of fun and games.

Such has been the interest in the Taupo region, that there will be back to back days on Thursday and Friday.

On the first day the regions, Year seven and eight aspiring players will take part in the Festival of Cricket, with Year five and six pupils participating in the introduction to the great game the following day.

Rotorua youngsters will have their day in the sun with bat and ball in hand the following Thursday, November 14, when they 'Crackit Cricket Carnival” Road Show rolls into town.

Bay of Plenty 'Crackit Cricket Carnival” Schedule

Wednesday 6th November 2013 – Eastern Bay of Plenty at Rex Morepeth Park, Whakatane

Thursday 7th November 2013 – Taupo Year 7/8

Friday 8th November 2013 – Taupo Year 5/6

Thursday 14th November - Rotorua