RIYADH: After the success of the 16th Annual Riyadh Inter-Hotels Cricket Tournament 2014-2015 that ended March this year and won by Riyadh Conference Palace Hotel the 17th edition of the wraparound tournament kicks off on Friday.

Crowding defending champion Riyadh Conference Palace for honors in the event to run until February next year are Courtyard Marriott, Four Seasons Hotel, InterContinental Riyadh Hotel, Makarim Riyadh Hotel, Marriott Riyadh Hotel, Novotel and Sheraton Riyadh & Towers Ritz Carlton.

The tournament format will be 16 overs with the best two teams from each group of the elimination rounds to qualify for the knockout semifinal and final rounds.

Hosted by Sheraton Riyadh Hotel & Towers through GM Gerald Chevasson, who is throwing his full support, the tournament also enjoys the backing by all GMs of the participating hotels. The tournament is aimed at promoting brotherhood and camaraderie among the employees in the hospitality industry.

The Friday opening games in the morning and afternoon pit Riyadh Conference Palace vs. InterCon at 6:30 a.m. and Riyadh Marrriott vs. Ritz Carlton at 1:30 p.m.

With RCP and InterCon in Group A are Courtyard Marriott, Four Seasons and Novotel. Bracketed in Group B with Riyadh Marrriott and Ritz Carlton are host Sheraton and Makarim Riyadh.