ICC U15 Cricket 8's Tournament - New Venue, New Dates

The International Cricket Council (ICC) East Asia - Pacific (EAP) region has confirmed dates and key preparations for the re-scheduling of the ICC EAP U15 Cricket 8's Tournament.

The Tournament was to be held in Suva, Fiji in late January, however due to political unrest it was unfortunately re-scheduled.

It has been confirmed that the Tournament will now be staged on three pitches at Samoa Gardens Ovals in Apia, Samoa from the 26th February to 3rd March 2007.

This is the second ICC U15 tournament held in the EAP region after the first such tournament was held in Melbourne in 2005, which PNG won, Vanuatu 2nd and Fiji finished 3rd.

Competing countries in the week long event will include Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Japan, Vanuatu, Samoa, Tonga and the Cook Islands, making the EAP U15 Cricket 8's a truly international tournament.

Matthew Weisheit, ICC EAP Regional Development Manager will travel to Samoa in the coming weeks to carry out an inspection of facilities and meet with key officials and potential sponsors as preparations for this important tournament progress.

Samoa English Cricket Association (SECA) President, Seb Kohlhase, is excited about the challenges that lie ahead with limited preparation time.

"We held a very successful EAP Cricket Trophy back in 2002 and are eager to host an exceptional U15 Tournament in February. We have excellent facilities here, which include three grounds and three practice nets on the same premises. We have the blessings of the Prime Minister, Minister of the South Pacific Games and Minister of Education." Seb Kohlhase said.

Along with being a great boost to junior cricket development in Samoa, this Tournament also offers the added benefit of providing the South Pacific Games, scheduled in Samoa from 25th August to 8th September 2007, an opportunity to witness first hand an International Cricket Tournament. This will only help in preparations for a successful cricket competition at the South Pacific Games.

The ICC EAP U15 Cricket 8's will be played under modified rules including eight players per team, the incorporation of a 'double zone' behind the bowler that allows double runs to be scored, and 20 over long innings. Teams will play two matches per day.