Sunday July 28th heralded a historic cricket match in Indonesian cricket history, namely the first game in the new national league between Bali and Jakarta at the Bukit oval, Jimbaran, Bali. Jakarta fielded a team of seasoned cricketers from India, Pakistan, Australia and England. Bali fielded 8 Indonesians (members of the Jimbaran CC) and three Australians. Bali won the toss and Paul Jarvis (captain) elected to field on an oval that was rock hard in the middle of the dry season. Jakarta raced to 42 without loss after 6 overs. By the 28th over they were all out for 117. A combination of rash strokes, good accurate bowling and brilliant fielding brought about this downfall. The pitch in general played true with the occasional ball keeping low. Bali began the run chase against a backdrop of uncertainly on their batting ability under pressure. However, their hard training paid of and during the 25th over won the game at 120 for 3. Their opening batsmen kept level heads and compiled the runs in a professional manner.

This game was played in the best spirit of the game. Jakarta while having the disadvantage and an away game and a lack of match practice, nevertheless were generous in their praise of Bali's young and enthusiastic Indonesian side. They particularly praised the fielding which saved between 40 and 50 runs. Sachin Gopalan (the Jakarta captain) is to be praised for the graciousness his team accepted defeat.

© ICC 2002