The International Cricket Council (ICC) have given the green light for an innovative partnership to begin between Japan, South Korea and the Victorian Cricket Association (VCA).

The partnership is an ICC Development Program initiative aimed at further developing and promoting cricket to new regions. It will see the VCA deliver courses for coaches, umpires, players and administrators in Japan and South Korea.

VCA Chief Executive Officer, Ken Jacobs said the announcement provided an opportunity for the Victorian Cricket Association to actively involve itself in the game's development in the East Asia-Pacific region. "We hope that this partnership will play a pivotal role in creating and shaping the future development of cricket in Japan and South Korea, whilst presenting unique opportunities for Victorian cricket personnel".

ICC East Asia-Pacific Development Manager, Matthew Kennedy was similarly excited about the new agreement. "Cricket is at an exciting stage in these nations with many current activities and initiatives. The involvement of State Associations is vitally important to the ICC's expansion of cricket in the East Asia-Pacific region, therefore we are extremely pleased with the new partnership between Japan, South Korea and the VCA".

The ICC Development Program contributes US$3.2 million globally on an annual basis to develop the game of cricket in non-Test playing countries.

© 2001 Victorian Cricket Association