REGISTRATION for the popular social cricket league Last Man Stands is now open for individuals and teams in Slough this summer.

Last Man Stands is an exciting eight-a-side midweek T20 format, suitable for cricketers of all standards and enjoyed by more than 50,000 players across the globe.

This season there will be two leagues with promotion and relegation, and a chance to battle it out to reach the regional and national finals weekends.

In 2014, Slough Tigers were crowned South England Champions and represented the area at the UK National finals in Liverpool.

Games last approximately two hours so are ideal for cricketers with time constraints who want to enjoy a fast-paced match and to compete in a professionally-organised league, run by people with a passion for the sport.

There are some great adjustments to the standard rules of cricket, such as a double play rule – two wickets off one ball – and the signatory rule which allows the last batsman to take on the opposition single-handed.

Last Man Stands has been hugely successful in attracting new and past players back to the sport as the leagues are very accessible and open to everyone. Teams do not need their own ground or formal club structure to enter.

All you need to do is register a team online or call the local league manager.

This format is perfect for work teams looking to bond over outdoor sport, or for club mates wanting midweek practice in a proper match situation.

The organisation of the league makes it simple for people to focus on selecting their teams. Venues, match balls, umpires and live scoring are all taken care of. You just need to turn up and play.

With increased support from the England Cricket Board and an ever-growing number of players, Last Man Stands is evolving from a niche form of the game based primarily in London to a viable, country-wide alternative to weekend cricket.

The success of the game is based on its simplicity and the way in which its website provides international rankings, allowing every player and team to analyse their performances in the ultimate version of Fantasy Cricket.

There is also the tantalising prospect of competing in National Finals, or even the World Finals which are next set for Cape Town in 2015.

Matches will be held at Burnham and Slough Cricket Clubs, and others to be confirmed with a 6.30pm start time.

Teams of eight can join up together, or there is the option to sign up as an individual. Mixed gender and ladies team are also welcome, but all players must be aged 16+.

For more information contact steve@lastmanstands.co.uk, call 07979 907022, or sign up online at www.lastmanstands.com/ playcricketslough.