One of the most successful junior cricket events in the Bay of Plenty will be held at the Bay Oval and Blake Park in Mount Maunganui on Wednesday (November 11), when the 12th Western Bay of Plenty Cricket Mini World Cup takes place.

Such has been success of the tournament, that Bay of Plenty Cricket has expanded the field to a record 24 teams, catering for entries from schools from Katikati to Pongakawa.

The Cricket Mini World Cup returns this Thursday. Photo: File.

The Western Bay Mini World Cup sees big city school youngsters rubbing shoulders with their country cousins, on a day where fun and enjoyment takes centre stage.

The Mini World Cup was initiated by Bay of Plenty Cricket in 2004, to introduce year five and six school pupils to the enjoyment of the game.

The competition offers a real flavour of international cricket, with all school teams representing a cricket-playing nation.

However, the best part on the day sees many of the teams enter into the spirit of the occasion and dress up in the colours of the country that they are representing.

Outside the Championship title, the most sought after prize is the best uniform award.

Last year, St Mary's School won the Western Bay of Plenty Mini World Cup for the fifth time, when they beat Tauranga Primary in the title decider.

Playing under the banner of England, St Mary's defeated South Africa in the battle between the two unbeaten teams.

The Western Bay of Plenty Mini World Cup takes place at the Bay Oval, Blake Park, Mount Maunganui on Wednesday, November 11, from 9.15am.