Cricket Fiji’s funding from the International Cricket Council (ICC) will be reinstated from January next year. This decision was announced by Cricket Fiji chief executive Sitiveni Rokoro, who expressed his satisfaction with the achievements and progress of the sport throughout this year.
The reinstatement of funding is a significant off-the-field highlight for Cricket Fiji in 2023, following months of analysis, strategic planning, and development efforts. Over the past two years, Cricket Fiji had its funding slashed by the ICC due to irregularities and late reporting from 2018 to 2020. Additionally, changes to the ICC’s funding policy post-COVID-19 also impacted the financial support provided to Cricket Fiji. However, starting from January 2024, these challenges will be a thing of the past as funding will be fully reinstated.
Addressing the funding reduction, Rokoro acknowledged the great challenge it posed for Cricket Fiji, stating, We received around $US50,000 ($FXXX) in the past two years, which had our hands tied to implement our strategic and action plan as well. However, he also shared the promising news that next year’s funding is expected to increase by approximately 200 percent.
Cricket Fiji has been proactive in reviewing internal policies and ensuring compliance with ICC requirements. Rokoro mentioned that their house is in order now, with 11 internal policies in place and proper reporting procedures to align with the ICC’s expectations. This enhanced organizational structure played a crucial role in reinstating the council’s funding.
During the funding reduction period, Cricket Fiji learned to think outside the box and find alternative sources of support. Rokoro highlighted partnerships with the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the Fiji National Sports Commission, and the Suva City Council, which enabled them to build a two-lane cricket lane at Albert Park earlier this year. Despite minimal funding, they successfully hosted the Pacific Island Cricket Challenge in March, in collaboration with the Australia Defense Force. The tournament saw the participation of teams from Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu, Samoa, and the New Zealand Defense Force.
Cricket Fiji’s resilience, dedication, and support from various stakeholders have allowed them to navigate the challenges of the past two years. They received crucial support from the Fiji National Sports Commission and secured funding through Pacific AusSports to implement their plans.
Looking ahead, Cricket Fiji aims to make significant strides in their development programs while working smartly to address their goals. Rokoro expressed his optimism, stating, We hope to go bigger and better. With funding being reinstated and the organization’s internal structure firmly in place, Cricket Fiji envisions a fruitful future for the sport in Fiji.
The reinstatement of ICC funding not only signifies financial support for Cricket Fiji but also acknowledges their efforts to rectify past challenges and their commitment to advancing the sport. As Cricket Fiji prepares for a new chapter, the reinstated funding will undoubtedly contribute to their continued growth and success.
In conclusion, Cricket Fiji can celebrate the news that their funding from the International Cricket Council will be reinstated starting from January 2024. The challenges faced over the past two years have been addressed through rigorous analysis, strategic planning, and policy revisions. With their internal house now in order and reporting procedures meeting ICC standards, Cricket Fiji is poised for a brighter future. The lessons learned during the funding reduction period have allowed them to think creatively and forge valuable partnerships. As they move forward, Cricket Fiji is eager to implement their development programs and make a significant impact in the world of cricket.
