Cricket in Korea Photo © ICC

Victorian cricket will be instrumental in the growth of cricket in Japan and South Korea after the International Cricket Council and the Victorian Cricket Association announced a cricket development partnership agreement with these countries today.

Cricket in Korea Photo © ICC

As part of the ICC Development Program in the East Asia – Pacific Region, the VCA has been engaged in a cricket partnership agreement with the Japan Cricket Association and Korea Cricket Association that will see it deliver coach, umpire, player and administrator development courses and other activities to grow the sport in these countries.

The initial agreement is for a period of 12 months but it is hoped that this will develop into a long-term relationship. The partnerships will also involve the significant provision of cricket equipment and development resources as well as other suitable VCA support mechanisms.

VCA Chief Executive, Ken Jacobs, said the VCA's interest in the growth of cricket in these countries was part of its overall contribution to the game's development.

"At the instigation of the ICC, we have previously conducted coach placements in Brunei, the Philippines and Vanuatu, and hosted a tour by Tonga. As such, I am delighted we have reached an agreement to be formally involved with the ICC Development Program," he said.

"We hope that this partnership will play a pivotal role in creating and shaping the future of cricket development in Japan and South Korea and also present unique opportunities for Victorian cricket personnel. By passing on the VCA's expertise in the development and marketing of the sport, I feel we can make a genuine input," he added.

Japan is an existing Affiliate Member of the ICC and South Korea's application for Affiliate Membership will be considered at the ICC Annual General Meeting in June in London. The Australian Cricket Board, as a Full Member, has proposed its acceptance. Both countries are a part of the ICC Development Program in the East Asia – Pacific Region.

ICC East Asia – Pacific Development Manager, Matthew Kennedy, said, "Both these countries have proven to be pro-active within the Program and cricket is at an exciting stage in these nations with many current activities and initiatives. This additional support will be invaluable in assisting the hard-working volunteer officials and players in both Japan and South Korea to achieve their aims of cricket progression.

"The Victorian Cricket Association is a highly successful cricket organisation, particularly in the area of game development. The ICC is delighted to have set-up a partnership whereby the VCA can have an influence within its Development Program. The involvement of State Associations has much to offer in both the immediate and longer terms and, as the Program expands, their participation is seen as important to the ICC's servicing of this Region," he added.

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

© ICC