The 2025 National Easter Cricket Tournament, held at Suva’s Albert Park, marks an important occasion for cricket in Fiji, representing not just a sporting event but a vital talent identification platform. This year, 15 teams participated, showcasing the burgeoning cricketing talent across the nation as the event transitioned from its traditional Easter weekend to June, providing teams with additional preparation time.
Joeli Mateyawa, Cricket Fiji’s tournament director, emphasized the tournament’s significance in scouting elite talent, particularly for the upcoming ICC qualifiers. “The Easter tournament is the first of three key competitions this year,” he stated, underlining its role in identifying both male and female players for national representation in August.
Renewed energy is evident with the addition of two teams: Fulaga from Lau, and the return of Rotuma after a four-year hiatus, highlighting the growing enthusiasm for cricket in Fiji. Development officer Inise Cakacaka pointed out, “It’s exciting to see new teams and young players giving their best,” reflecting the tournament’s broad focus on player development rather than solely on winning.
A notable presence at this year’s tournament includes players from Fiji’s Under-19 team, recently back from representing the nation in Japan, raising the competition’s standards and inspiring their peers. The tournament’s structure is divided into two tiers, fostering competitive balance among the participating teams.
However, challenges persist. Limited access to quality grounds and the high travel costs for island teams remain hurdles. In response, Cricket Fiji is supporting teams with boat fares and logistical funding to ensure their participation. Furthermore, efforts toward grassroots development are evident, with cricket being introduced in schools across various regions like Suva and Nadi, aiming to nurture future talent.
As this tournament unfolds and progresses towards the Super Eight competition later in the year, the revival of interest and participation in cricket within Fiji paints a hopeful picture for the sport’s evolution. The focus on not just competition but development suggests a robust future for cricket in the nation, promoting a sense of community and engagement that transcends mere sporting achievement.
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