The Israel Cricket Assov ciation has won the Spirit of Cricket Award at the Pepsi ICC Development Programme Annual Awards.

The ICA’s Cross Border Cricket Programme has introduced cricket as a means of bringing together Jewish and Bedouin children in the Negev Desert to promote co-existence and tolerance amongst those caught up in the Israel-Arab conflict.

ICA chairman Stanley Perlman said: “We are so proud of our achievement. We want to show the world how Jewish and Bedouins get on through the medium of cricket. Be positive think positive and things will happen.”

The awards promote excellence in cricket development and recognise exceptional performance and service to the game in the ICC’s 94 Associate and Affiliate Member countries.

ICC Regional Development Manager, Richard Holdsworth commented: “Most of the programmes and initiatives have been organised by dedicated volunteers. We hope these special awards will encourage others to get involved in our great game.”