Cook Islands gets helping hand from NZ Black Cap
The beautiful Aitutaki in the Cook Islands recently played host to two trials between Rarotonga and Aitutaki. These closely fought fixtures played a key role in selection for the Cook Islands National side which has been announced to contest the ICC EAP
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Together with fellow selector Rick Pickard (former Northern Districts and Black Cap selector) we are confident we have chosen the best possible team to represent the Cook Islands on this occasion. For a number of reasons the best players haven't represented the Cook's in recent times. The pleasing factor is the representation of players from Rarotonga, Aitutaki and New Zealand.
Aitutaki in particular are very proud to have two players make final selection and a further three players make the reserve squad. Aitutaki have a thriving youthful cricket culture and I'm sure they will only contribute more players in the near future.
The trials were well supported with around 300 locals enjoying the action, while providing a festival atmosphere. The fact that Aitutaki narrowly lost both fixtures did not dampen the spectator's spirits with plenty of treacle home brew, cheering and laughter. One outstanding feature of the trials was the fielding skills, particularly of the Aitutaki team. Some brilliant catches were taken, much to the delight of the home crowd.
Black Cap Daryl Tuffey joined me on my visit and really enjoyed helping out with school visits and coaching sessions. Daryl himself is 25% Cook Islander and as coach of the team I would love to have his services in Vanuatu. Unfortunately for us he will be on Black Cap duty. The senior squads really benefited from Daryl's experience, with the fast bowlers soaking up the rare chance to get tips from a current international.
Preparation for the Vanuatu tournament won't be made easy with the 3 squads coming together only days before the first game. The tournament will require us playing six one day internationals in seven days, so fitness will be a key. Recent fitness testing has clearly shown that some hard work will have to be put in by some.
Cook Islands cricket is now thriving largely due to the renewed faith in the new executive. The ANZ has just announced a major sponsorship partnership with Cook Islands Cricket which is one example of the tremendous support that is now building for cricket in the Cook's.