A plethora of talented cricketers will be on show in next month’s ICC World Cricket League Qualifier – East Asia-Pacific, in Victoria’s regional heartland.
The City of Greater Bendigo will play host to teams representing Fiji, Japan, Indonesia, the Philippines, Samoa and Vanuatu for the tournament being held from February 19th – 25th.
Each team will play each other once in a round robin format, with the top team qualifying for World Cricket League Division 5.
Vanuatu will come into the Qualifier as early favourites after just missing out on retaining their spot in Division 5 in 2016.
But the likes of Fiji and Samoa will ensure there is plenty of healthy competition for the one available qualifying spot.
The ICC has worked closely with the City of Greater Bendigo to bring the tournament to Bendigo for the first time.
City of Greater Bendigo Major Events Manager Terry Karamaloudis cannot wait to “welcome another international event to Bendigo”.
“In 2016 we hosted both international table tennis and hockey, and now we can welcome in 2017 with the ICC World Cricket League Qualifier.
“Bendigo is delivering high end sporting events that really enhance liveability and civic pride,” said Karamaloudis.
“We also acknowledge the support and assistance of the Bendigo District Cricket Association in securing and assisting in the delivery of this event.”
The ICC is also extremely grateful to the Victorian Government for their support through the Significant Sporting Events Program.
Minister for Sport, John Eren, said the Victorian Government was pleased to welcome teams to Victoria.
“We are proud to be supporting the ICC World Cricket League Qualifier, and extend a warm welcome to the competing teams.
“Events like this provide a wonderful opportunity to showcase Bendigo’s facilities and passion for cricket to more people, and will inspire locals to pick up a bat,” Minister Eren said.
Cricket enthusiasts from around the region are encouraged to visit Bendigo and enjoy what will be a great experience.
The tournament begins on Sunday 19th of February with all six teams in action and live scores available through www.icc-cricket.com.
(Papua New Guinea are hoping to participate in A team tournaments in Australia to get more quality match time © Getty Images)