Drifters are crowned Cup Winners at the 2025 Chiang Mai International Cricket Sixes
Drifters lifted the Cup for the first time since 1996 at the 35th staging of the Chiang Mai International Cricket Sixes as they got over the line against Darjeeling in a dramatic final at the Gymkhana Club. It was fitting that two ever-present sides competed in a showcase which was full of quality with twists and turns thrown in for good measure. In the end, just 1 run separated the sides in a match that will be discussed for years to come.
A sizeable crowd gathered throughout finals day as the competition between 28 men’s teams and 3 in the ladies’ competition came to an end after 7 days of fantastic action. The finals got underway with the youngsters of Lamphun Red Caps overcoming Central Spirit, who included players from the Asia Hope Orphanage in their side in the Ladies' final.
The Spoon saw success at last for the NT Bushrangers, who proved too strong for the Armadillos of West London. The Plate Final saw another triumph for the Tokyo Dingbats, who repelled the challenge of Sons of Pitches from NSW. The third tier Bowl saw a comprehensive victory for holders Glenmore Park Silly Sloggers of Sydney over Darwin Dilletantes. The game saw Harry Smith take 3 wickets for 2 runs to pick up the Player of the Finals accolade.
The Shield was a fitting prelude to the Cup final as the Thailand Junior Cricket Development Fund team, consisting of young Thais from Lamphun and Koh Chang, defeated an experienced Lao Elephants side by 3 runs. There were many watching left without dry eyes such was the performance of the juniors.
The player of the tournament was awarded to Luke Stokes of the Drifters, who batted 7 times, amassing 201 runs with no side managing to dismiss him. He also took a breathtaking catch in the final.
At the presentation ceremony, it was remembered just how miraculous it had been to stage the tournament after the unprecedented devastating floods of just a few months earlier, with thanks being relayed to generous benefactors and sponsors along with those who toiled for endless hours to restore the ground.
It was also announced that the 36th edition of the Chiang Mai Sixes will be held between Sunday, March 29th and Saturday, 4th April 2026.