Sports Bulletin Report
Dubai (UAE): The year 2024 sees the EAP host four ICC Pathway Events across Senior Men’s, U19 Women’s, and U19 Men’s. The bumper year will see all nine Associate Members of the EAP participate in at least one event, as each team strives to take the next step in qualification to the ICC World Cup, in the respective formats.
Starting in Indonesia, Bali will play host to the second ever ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup EAP Qualifier. The inaugural event, also hosted in Bali in 2022, saw Indonesia successfully qualify for their first ever ICC World Cup, a special memory for all involved.
Wesika Ratna Dewi, former captain of the Indonesian Women’s under-19 team said: "I feel proud whenever I represent my country and I know how it feels to win this qualifier and go to an ICC World Cup. It is difficult to achieve success at this level and it is important not to waste the opportunities we are given. The Indonesian coaching staff and team are well prepared for this event, and I am excited to see the next generation play. I wish all teams much success and look forward to seeing top level cricket at my home in Bali."
All eyes then turn to Samoa who play host to back-to-back events with the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup EAP Division 2 Qualifier followed immediately by the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup EAP Sub-Regional Qualifier A. This festival of cricket in Samoa will allow the country to showcase its talent to the world, both on and off the field.
Sala Stella Siale Vaea Tagitau, General Manager of Samoa Cricket said: “Hosting two international cricket tournaments in Samoa not only shows the nation's commitment to sporting excellence but also provides growth opportunities for both Samoa as a country and Samoa Cricket as a sports organisation. These tournaments serve as a motivating force and inspiration in fostering community unity through more people participating in cricket, increased fans and commercial partners, promoting tourism, and empowering our youth with invaluable cricket skills, cultural experiences and friendship. Through these events, Samoa emerges on the global stage, reinforcing its stature as a vibrant sporting destination while propelling Samoa Cricket to unprecedented heights of success and recognition.”
Completing the events is the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup EAP Sub-Regional Qualifier B, to be hosted in South Korea on the the 10th Anniversary of cricket’s inclusion in the 2014 Asian Games, held in Incheon, South Korea. The event represents the first time South Korea has hosted an ICC event and aims to make a big impact in bringing cricket into a large market relatively new to cricket.
Kim Nam Ghi, Chairman of Korea Cricket Association said: "Hosting a prestigious event like the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup EAP Sub-Regional Qualifier B signifies a monumental milestone for Korea Cricket Association and cricket development in Korea. Beyond the excitement of international cricket returning to our shores, this tournament holds immense significance for us in terms of junior development and nurturing the dreams of aspiring athletes.
“Being part of this event not only provides a platform for our players to showcase their talent on a global stage but also inspires them towards higher goals, including the dream of participating in future Olympic events. The exposure and experience gained through events of this calibre are invaluable in shaping the future of cricket in Korea and fostering a strong sense of sportsmanship and camaraderie within our cricketing community."
Rob Gomm, ICC Regional Development Manager EAP said: “2024 is shaping up to be a huge year in cricket for the EAP Region. All Associate Members have a chance to take the next step in ICC World Cup qualification and bring pride to their fans back home. I want to wish all the hosts the very best with their preparations. The eyes of the cricketing world will be on us, and I am confident we will deliver four world-class events.”
ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup EAP Qualifier
Host: Indonesia (Bali)
Dates: 14 – 20 May 2024
Participating teams: Fiji, Indonesia, PNG, Samoa
ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup EAP Division 2 Qualifier
Host: Samoa (Apia)
Dates: 6 – 10 August 2024
Participating teams: Indonesia, PNG, Samoa, Vanuatu
ICC Men’s T20 World Cup EAP Sub-Regional Qualifier A
Host: Samoa (Apia)
Dates: 17 – 24 August 2024
Participating teams: Cook Islands, Fiji, Samoa, Vanuatu
ICC Men’s T20 World Cup EAP Sub-Regional Qualifier B
Host: South Korea (Incheon)
Dates: 28 September – 5 October 2024
Participating teams: Indonesia, Japan, Philippines, South Korea
