Cricket Fiji is making significant strides in promoting women’s and girls’ cricket following a successful year that culminated in hosting the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup East Asia Pacific Qualifier. Chief Executive Siti Rokoro has revealed an ambitious roadmap for 2026, emphasizing the development of local talent as a central theme of their strategy.
At the heart of this initiative is the introduction of the first national under-19 women’s tournament. Rokoro announced that an extensive school-based qualifying program will be launched to ensure that girls from across the nation have opportunities to participate. Plans are in place for school tournaments in various regions, including Suva, Tailevu, Sawani, Nasinu, Serua, and the islands of Moce, Lakeba, and Cicia, aiming to take place during the first week of the school break in Term 1.
“This initiative is about building directly from the momentum of the World Cup Qualifiers and providing our young girls with a platform to shine,” Rokoro stated.
Cricket Fiji also aims to strengthen the elite domestic pathway by reviving the national women’s tournament, which had a reduced format in its last iteration due to ground availability issues. The federation started this competition in 2022, and it hopes to bring back a fuller version in August.
Furthermore, there is the exciting prospect of an overseas team visiting Fiji for competition, which would provide additional match experience for local women’s teams. Discussions have been held with the director of cricket in New Caledonia about a potential visit next year, which could lead to a match with the national women’s team, although this has yet to be confirmed.
In addition to these efforts, Cricket Fiji has also outlined plans for two major international tournaments in 2024 targeting the girl’s under-19 and national men’s teams. This comprehensive approach demonstrates Cricket Fiji’s commitment to not only enhance the visibility of women’s cricket but to build a sustainable framework for the development of the sport in the region.
With these initiatives, the future looks bright for women’s cricket in Fiji, paving the way for greater participation and success on the international stage.