Cricket NSW visit to Fiji

U19 Development Squad © ICC

Arriving in Suva, Fiji immediately after the recently completed series against Vanuatu which Fiji comprehensively won 3-0 was akin to a kid being set loose in a lolly shop. The excitement of the Cricket Fiji staff, Executive and players was only matched by that of the spectators who gathered patiently in oppressive humidity at Albert Park for the four days of the Annual "Dwarka Prasad Cup" cheering their family, friends and local identities. The outcome of this Tournament was also a first for Cricket Fiji - the final between a team from Suva and an Island team from Tubou culminated in a breathtaking TIE ! Who would have thought!

Following the success of this Carnival a squad of 19 players was selected to participate in a week long Development Program in preparation for the rapidly approaching WCL Division 3 Championships to be held in Darwin during May and June. The final touring party of 14 was ultimately announced and after 4 solid days of training the boys now consider themselves ready to embark on the most important tour in the History of Fijian Cricket.

An Under 19 Development Program was also conducted over 3 evenings, where the number of attendees (over 40) surprised everyone involved. These sessions culminated in an exciting evening of 20/20 matches at which time a provisional squad of 30 players were selected to continue training in preparation for their upcoming Tournament in Vanuatu. The standard and quality of players on display was outstanding and the future of Cricket in Fiji appears to be in good hands.

Several school visits were enjoyed, and many teachers attended an ICC Introduction to Cricket Program facilitated by CF Development staff. Partnerships between CF and local schools are being strengthened through their "Gone Qaseqase" program and interest levels are high.

Cricket is really on the agenda in Fiji at the moment, and success in the WCL Series will take it to that next level I'm sure. Local media coverage is not quite at Rugby 7's popularity, however articles of interest in Daily Press and on nightly Television News is raising that profile.