SAFRICANS PLAY VILLAGE CRICKET IN THE EASTERN CAPE, 2002-12-27 (photo)

Run outs can be tough for villagers playing in the "Amacal'egusha" (meaning "Half a sheep") cricket tournament, December 27, 2002. While the game has often been seen as a traditionally white dominated sport in South Africa, the tournament has been played since the 1920's between villages in the country's rural Eastern Cape province. A lack of facilities has not dampened enthusiasm for the sport in the region, home of national team players Makhaya Ntini and Monde Zondeki, both included in the country's team for the Cricket World Cup due to begin in February. The original ovine prize has, however, been replaced in recent years with a more conventional trophy.-PICTURE TAKEN 27 DECEMBER-TO MATCH FEATURE SPORT-CRICKET-WORLD-SPECTACLE REUTERS/Mike Hutchings REUTERS MH