The big island of Savai’i is serious about reviving kilikiti.

That’s why they have set up the Samoa Independent Kilikiti League, with a tournament already underway, which will culminate with the finals next month.

Some 18 teams from all over Savai’i are taking part in the competition, which has been divided into four pools.

President of the Tournament, Fiu Solo, said their main goal is to revive the traditional sport.

“Kilikiti is our version of cricket, our people are used to it,” said Fiu.  “This game is not new to our people, it was introduced in the early days by the missionaries who came to Samoa.

“The idea was to bring people together, youths and everyone to meet one another and enjoy themselves especially during the holidays or weekends.

“For us in Savaii, it’s part of who we are. That’s why we have been finding it hard to ignore and we believe this is a new beginning.”

On Monday, the league was officially launched at Saipipi. Here are some photos from the launch.