Community cricket clubs and facilities across NSW will receive a funding boost, with the announcement of 77 successful projects in the final round of NSW ICC T20 World Cup Cricket Legacy Fund.
Deputy Premier John Barilaro and Acting Minister for Sport Geoff Lee said the NSW Government is committed to upgrading cricket facilities and boosting grassroots development.
“As Aussies we love our cricket and this is particularly true in regional NSW where a large social network often revolves around the local cricket club,” Mr Barilaro said.
“T20 cricket has given new life to the game, keeping kids interested and attracting new fans. It is fantastic to see the final round of the T20 World Cup Cricket Legacy Fund deliver projects to regional communities, giving country towns the same quality facilities as those in the city and improving participation rates in the sport.
“We are committed to supporting cricket in regional NSW and I am pleased to announce Big Bash fans in Coffs Harbour and Albury will get to see their heroes in action with the Sydney Sixers and Sydney Thunder locked in for fixtures in the 2020/21 season.”
Mr Lee said the funding will facilitate the development of infrastructure for community cricket clubs, as well as support female programs and resources across the State.
“We are committed to ensuring a lasting legacy from hosting T20 World Cup matches in Sydney and the legacy fund continues to deliver great outcomes,” Mr Lee said.
“Today’s announcement of the successful recipients brings the total funding amount to $6 million over the last three years, supporting over 200 projects that will continue to benefit community cricket across NSW for generations to come.”
ICC T20 World Cup Acting Chief Executive Officer Michelle Enright said the projects will ensure there is a lasting legacy beyond the women’s and men’s tournaments.
“We are delighted that the Legacy Fund continues to have a positive impact fostering cricket participation across NSW, especially for women and girls following the successful ICC Women’s T20 World Cup,” Ms Enright said.
“Congratulations to all recipients and a big thank you to the NSW Government and Cricket NSW for their generous support. We look forward to continuing our work together for the postponed Men’s T20 World Cup in 2022, which will be another fantastic opportunity to inspire cricket participation.”
The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup will be held in 2022, with seven matches proposed to be held in Sydney. Fixtures and ticketing details will be available in 2021.
For more information visit: https://www.sport.nsw.gov.au/t20worldcupfund