USA sign partnership with New Zealand

The USA Cricket Association has announced an intention to establish a “strategic partnership agreement” with New Zealand Cricket. The proposed partnership covers a variety of activities, ranging from the sharing of coaching and development resources through to the staging of international fixtures involving the two countries.

“We are very positive and excited about the benefits our relationship with NZC can bring to USA cricket,” Don Lockerbie, USACA’s chief executive, said. “USA cricket can learn greatly from the experience and knowledge of NZC, and we believe there are real and significant cricketing benefits and commercial opportunities possible through this partnership.”

“We are looking forward to a long-term partnership with USACA,” added NZC chief executive Justin Vaughan. “Cricket in the United States is at a very exciting stage, and we are enthusiastic about the prospect of helping USACA significantly grow the game in their country. The benefits of cricket becoming more established in the USA are globally significant for the sport.”

Two years ago USACA appeared to have thrown in its lot with neighbours West Indies, but the latter’s internal political and financial problems have made it a less appealing prospect for the ambitious Lockerbie.