The Vanuatu Cricket Association is set to host the 2024 Veterans Cricket Carnival from September 16th to 21st, bringing a mix of competitive cricket and tourism to the islands. The event, organised by Veterans Cricket Australia in partnership with the Vanuatu Cricket Association (VCA), will see veteran male players from Australia teaming up with Vanuatu’s international women cricketers in mixed-gender teams. This unique format, first trialled in Samoa, fosters camaraderie, mutual respect, and joy both on and off the field.
Over the four-day event, four teams named, each after one of Vanuatu's provinces will compete in a series of matches at the Vanuatu Cricket Grounds. Cricket fans can look forward to encounters between teams representing Sanma, Penama, Malampa, and Shefa, culminating in the final matches on September 21st, when the Australian teams will take on their Vanuatu counterparts.
Beyond the love of the game, this tour is also part of a broader initiative by the VCA to promote cricket tourism as a key economic driver for the country. Cricket has long been a vital part of Vanuatu’s sporting culture, and the association is tapping into the sport’s global reach to attract visitors. The VCA has been actively leveraging cricket to boost the country’s profile as a unique destination, offering both competitive cricket and tropical adventure. The Veterans Cricket Carnival perfectly aligns with this strategy, as it not only provides world-class cricket but also invites participants and spectators to experience Vanuatu’s natural beauty, cultural richness, and warm hospitality.
Tim Cutler, CEO of Vanuatu Cricket, has emphasised the importance of integrating cricket with tourism to benefit the local economy. The 2024 Carnival, held at the picturesque grounds in Port Vila and surrounding areas, will encourage international visitors to explore Vanuatu and all its beauty. Activities such as guided tours, local excursions, and cultural performances will be available during the tournament's off days, giving visitors a taste of the islands’ offerings.
The VCA’s efforts to position Vanuatu as a hub for cricket tourism are part of a larger push to develop the sport within the country. The association has been instrumental in promoting grassroots programs, increasing participation at all levels, and building a strong cricket infrastructure. By hosting international events like the Veterans Cricket Carnival, the VCA continues to strengthen its ties with global cricket communities while contributing to the local economy. The tour also highlights the significant role sports can play in post-pandemic recovery, as countries like Vanuatu look to revive their tourism industries.
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