East Asia Pacific Announces Hosts and Dates for 2024 Pathway Events
In 2024, the East Asia Pacific (EAP) region will host four International Cricket Council (ICC) Pathway Events across Senior Men’s, U19 Women’s, and U19 Men’s categories. This exciting year will witness participation from all nine Associate Members of the EAP in at least one event, as they strive to qualify for the ICC World Cup in their respective formats.
The events will kick off in Bali, Indonesia, which will host the second ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup EAP Qualifier. The inaugural event, also held in Bali in 2022, saw Indonesia qualify for their first ever ICC World Cup, creating a memorable moment 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.”
Following Indonesia, Samoa will host back-to-back events: the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup EAP Division 2 Qualifier and the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup EAP Sub-Regional Qualifier A. This cricket festival in Samoa will provide an opportunity for the country to showcase its talent 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 demonstrates 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 increased participation in cricket, attracting more 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.”
The final event, the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup EAP Sub-Regional Qualifier B, will be hosted in South Korea on the 10th Anniversary of cricket’s inclusion in the 2014 Asian Games, held in Incheon, South Korea. This event marks the first time South Korea has hosted an ICC event and aims to make a significant impact in introducing cricket to a large market relatively new to the sport.
Mr 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.”
2024 Schedule of Events:
- ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup EAP Qualifier
- ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup EAP Division 2 Qualifier
- ICC Men’s T20 World Cup EAP Sub-Regional Qualifier A
- ICC Men’s T20 World Cup EAP Sub-Regional Qualifier B