The Finnish national team, soon to travel to Vienna for the ECC Representative Festival, proved too strong for Estonia over the weekend of August 5-6 the first "official" 40-over international fixtures held in Finland against Estonia. What Estonia lacked in ability they certainly made up in enthusiasm, and a great weekend of cricket was had by all.
On the Saturday, Finland won the toss and batted, amassing 322-5 from their allotted overs - Hugh Fitzpatrick with 71, Sunny Sood 56 and Matti Vihtonen 104 were the main scorers. In reply Estonia made 92 all-out.
On the Sunday, Finland again batted making 333-9 with 102 for Fred Sumelius and 105 for Scott Thurling; Anil Purri achieved bowling figures of 5-70. In return Estonia achieved 173-9 with good knocks from Naresh 40, Phil Marsdale 23no and Jason Barry 33no.
As part of the FCA's development program backed by the ECC, MCC umpire Brian Canniford was invited to Finland to assist with an umpires revision session for 10 of the Association's keen umpires due to sit the ACU&S part1 umpire's exam. The FCA thanks eveyone concerned for their interest and hopes that all the hard work will be rewarded with passes. Brian then assisted in umpiring the two Finland vs. Estonia 'internationals'. Brian stood with FCA umpires David Scamans, Trevor Gill and Sayid Ayub over the two games and passed on his expertise throughout.
The FCA would like to express its gratitude to Nigel Laughton ECDO for approving the weekend and most of all to Brian for his wonderful help and enthusiasm over the weekend.
Finland and Estonia had earlier contested internationals in Tallinn, Estonia on the weekend of 17-18 June and the weekend was hailed a great success. The first "internationals" between the two sides were played in a good and competitive spirit.
On the Saturday, there was a 30-over fixture. Helsinki batted first and amassed 173-7 off their allotted overs - Estonia were bowled out in reply for 92.
On the Sunday, Estonia could only make 96-7 but put up a spirited bowling response leading to Finland completing the victory but only after having lost 8 wickets.