A total of 15 teams are set to participate in the eagerly anticipated 2025 National Easter Cricket Tournament, which will take place at Albert Park in Suva over the span of a week. This year’s tournament is divided into two tiers: Tier one features eight teams, while Tier two includes seven teams, intensifying the competitive spirit.
The defending champions, Kabara, are determined to reclaim their title following a successful prior tournament. Cricket Fiji’s development officer, Joeli Matayawa, provided insights into the tournament, noting that it had to be rescheduled from its original plan during the Easter break due to ground closures. The new dates now allow teams to adequately prepare and compete, taking place from June 9 to 14.
Matayawa emphasized the tournament’s dual purpose: to select and ready a Senior Women’s cricket team for the ICC qualifier tournament scheduled in September, which will include eight participating countries. In addition, efforts are focused on forming a strong Senior Men’s cricket side that will compete in the series of tournaments leading up to the Super Eight competition in August.
The introduction of new teams, such as Vulaga from Lau and Rotuma’s return after a four-year absence, indicates a growing interest in the sport, promising an exciting event for all involved. Matayawa also highlighted efforts to nurture youth athletes, promoting cricket within primary and secondary schools across several regions in Fiji, including Suva, Nadi, and Lautoka.
As the tournament progresses, Kabara’s status as the defending champions sets a high benchmark, inspiring other clubs to elevate their performances. The entire community eagerly awaits the tournament’s culmination on Saturday, hoping for a showcase of competitive spirit and sportsmanship among teams. The bolstered focus on youth engagement marks a hopeful trajectory for the future of cricket in Fiji, ramping up enthusiasm and participation in the sport.
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