"Hungarian cricket got a timely boost on the weekend of May 24 and 25 with a visit from English cricket team MC3.Despite losing three of the four matches, the tourists were in very high spirits throughout their stay.
Saturday's match saw a relatively strong Hungary XI take on the vistors in a 30-over match at Dunabogdany (about 35km north of Budapest). Amandeep Singh's unbeaten 69 (which included 12 boundaries), and captain Gabor Torok's 52, took the home side to a score of 237-6.
In reply, MC3 (a group loosely connected through Magdalen College, Oxford) could only muster 169, before they were all out with one over to go.
David Wigg showed his class with a fine 52, while home bowler Mark Bownas was the pick of the attack.
On Sunday, the atmosphere was a bit more relaxed, as the touring group got a chance to play in two eight-a-side matches at the RAFC pitch in Budapest's District XVI. Hungary's junior and senior sides were both successful, but MC3 finally got a win on the board in a serious 15-over match to round off the weekend, despite 16-year-old Attila Vakan's unbeaten 33.
"We've had a fantastic time and appreciate everything that's happened this weekend," said Felix Geiringer, as he presented a signed bat and kit bag to Hungarian Cricket Association chairman Andy Grieve on behalf of MC3. "We love Hungarian cricket, the pitches are great, and we wish you lots more success."
At least five more touring teams will be coming to Hungary this summer to enjoy some cricket, beer and sunshine. For more info on Hungarian cricket go to www.hungary4cricket.com."
Source: Budapest Sun
05.06.2008