U19 CWC realises dreams of teenaged cricketers: Richardson
The ICC U19 Cricket World Cup 2018 is almost here, with fans across seven spectacular venues in New Zealand set to witness the future stars battle it out for top honours. The tournament, which has been the stepping stone for many international stars over the years, will see 16 countries play 48 matches to crown the next champion.
David Richardson, the International Cricket Council’s chief executive officer, was confident that like always, young guns would again put up a great show.
"In the 2008 U19 CWC, Virat Kohli led the Indian team with such passion, it was something we hadn't seen before from an Under-19 team," he remembered. "In that same tournament, Kane Williamson was there from the New Zealand team. There are so many names you can think of who have played at this event over the years and are now doing so well in international cricket. Joe Root and Jos Buttler from England, Corey Anderson, who is also the ambassador for this version of the event, Jason Holder, and so many more to mention. It has proved to be a stepping stone for many of the future stars."
This will be the 12th edition of the tournament, the first having been played back in 1988. Australia and India have clinched the title thrice each, while Pakistan has lifted the trophy twice. England, South Africa and the Windies have emerged triumphant once apiece.
"I think what the U19 CWC does is two things,” said Richardson. “There are not many cricketers who start off playing without the dream of playing international cricket. And what the Under-19 World Cup does is it realises that dream for teenaged cricketers, who are keen on their cricket.
"But more than that, hopefully they are not striving to just get the kit and the cap. It does prove to be a very effective stepping stone for the development of international cricketers. They get the opportunity to mix with the best, to experience firsthand what it is like to play in an international global tournament. They learn all about corruption, doping and all those kind of things to make sure that when they eventually make it to the big stage, they are well equipped and well aware."
The 48 matches will be played across seven venues – the Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui, the Lincoln Green and the Bert Sutcliffe Oval in Lincoln, the Hagley Oval in Christchurch, the John Davies Oval in Queenstown, the Cobham Oval in Whangarei and the Rangiora Recreation Ground in Rangiora.
"This is the third time New Zealand are hosting the event, and they have fantastic facilities for the youngsters,” Richardson acknowledged. “At the Under-19 level, the tournaments are a lot more open. You are not quite sure exactly about the strength of the teams. But obviously, New Zealand, as the home team, would be one of the favourites. But West Indies were very strong last time. I'm sure they are hoping to repeat their success. But Pakistan, or even some of the smaller teams, often spring some surprises.
"I think Nepal is a very good incentive for the smaller nations. They have done exceptionally well in the Under-19 events of the past. The likes of Afghanistan, who did very well in the recent U19 Asia Cup, can also do very well against some of the more favoured teams."
Richardson promised a fantastic tournament, one that will ensure fans in New Zealand take away great memories from.
"New Zealand is very famous for its All Black Rugby team, but come summer time, cricket takes the stage here," he pointed out. "The fans will hopefully be looking forward to this event. Entry will be free, and hopefully they will come out and support all the teams. I think all the participating teams can look forward to a well-run tournament, great facilities and enthusiastic support."
The ICC U19 CWC will run for three weeks, between January 13 and February 3.