[Published on Saturday, 18 April 2026]
BY TONY IROGA
The Solomon Islands Cricket Federation (SICF) is ramping up preparations for its upcoming National Club Championship Competition in June in Honiara and international competition scheduled for July in Vanuatu for men’s competition and November in Fiji for women’s competition this year.
Training programs are already underway, with athletes in Honiara leading the charge as teams begin intense preparations.
Speaking to Island Sun yesterday, SICF president Sajeewa Liyanage is calling on clubs and players across the country to get ready for what is expected to be a landmark event in the revival of cricket.
With the sport on the rise, he urged boys and girls to seize the opportunity and join ongoing training programs, particularly in Honiara.
“The Solomon Islands Cricket Federation is the national body responsible for developing and promoting cricket in the Solomon Islands,” he said.
He said the federation is focused on reviving cricket after years of inactivity and promotes the sport through school programs.
He said this year both boys and girls’ squad are gearing up for an exciting international challenge cricket tournament in Vanuatu on July for men’s and November tournament for women’s in Fiji.
“The SICF is in collaboration with regional cricket bodies and the ICC continues to strengthen its capacity,” he said.
He said the federation is aiming organise local leagues and tournaments to join regional competitions in Pacific level and work towards international cricket ICC pathway.
He highlighted that the SICF’s long-term goal is to expand the domestic player base and achieve stronger international performances.
He said cricket has been introduced in schools within Honiara in last year 2025, with pilot programs already running regular training and development programs which help to grow participation among boys and girls.
“Right now, cricket in the SICF is still in a development stage, so there are very few formal national competitions yet,” he said.
“Cricket offers great opportunities for young people to develop discipline, teamwork, and leadership skills while staying active and healthy,” he said.
He said the federation is currently running training and development programs, especially in schools around Honiara, as part of its grassroots initiative.
“Young athletes who are interested are encouraged to register and attend training sessions, where they can learn basic cricket skills and progress to higher levels of the sport,” he said.
He urged schools, communities, and stakeholders to support the program and help grow cricket in the country.
“My heartfelt gratitude to Australia for its generous support toward the development of cricket in the country,” he said.
He said Australia’s support of approximately AUD 14,000, will go towards strengthening federation programs, training, and grassroots development.
“My sincere appreciation to the Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport and the National Sports Council Solomon Islands for their continued support,” he said.
He acknowledged SINIS and NSC for vital contribution in providing training facilities, which have played a key role in preparing athletes and developing the sport across the country.
He said the access to proper facilities has greatly improved the quality of training and helped players build confidence ahead of upcoming competitions.
Photo: Supplied
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