Discussions are actively progressing between Cricket Fiji and the Suva City Council concerning the acquisition of a 5.9-acre site for the establishment of a High-Performance facility and office dedicated to the national cricket body. Cricket Fiji’s CEO, Sitiveni Rokoro, indicated that the Suva City Council is currently conducting an evaluation of the land, an essential step before moving forward with the lease and formal documentation.
Rokoro explained, “The Suva City Council is currently doing the evaluation of the land before we work on the lease documents and get all the legal documents ready.” This process is crucial for formalizing the agreement and moving ahead with the construction.
Cricket Fiji plans to shoulder the costs of initial site preparation, including land clearing and legal expenses, while the construction of the facility is expected to be funded through designations from the regional cricket body’s facility development funding. Once the requisite paperwork with the Suva City Council is finalized, Cricket Fiji intends to assess the overall costs and apply for funding from the International Cricket Council.
Additionally, Rokoro noted that securing the lease would also enhance their ability to attract commercial and governmental support for the project. In an effort to bolster cricket across the region, plans are underway to upgrade existing pitches throughout the country, including initiatives outside of Suva.
“We have also established and planned upgrade cricket facilities around the islands; last week we sent a grass carpet and some glue down to Komo to revive cricket on the island,” Rokoro stated. He emphasized the commitment to improving pitches in various locations so that players there can compete on similar turf as those in Suva, particularly during significant events like the Easter tournament and Super Eight tournament.
This initiative not only aims to enhance facilities for cricket at the national level but also demonstrates a commitment to strengthening the sport’s infrastructure throughout Fiji, bringing hope for a brighter future for local cricket talent.
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