ICC Announces 2023 Development Award Winners

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has named six countries as recipients of the ICC Development Award for 2023, in recognition of their remarkable and transformative efforts in the realm of associate cricket. The honorees are the Netherlands, the United Arab Emirates, Nepal, Mexico, Oman, and Scotland.

The awards were distributed across six categories, with winners chosen from a shortlist of 21 nations. The ICC Development Awards Panel made the selections, affirming the impactful work accomplished in these associate member countries. 'Acknowledging transformative work in the Associate cricket world, six nations have been crowned as ICC Development Award winners for 2023,' the ICC stated.

Established in 2002, the ICC Development Awards highlight the world-leading efforts in ICC Associate Member countries to grow the game globally. This includes both innovative development programs and inspirational on-field performances. Here is a closer look at how the six winning members earned their accolades.

Mexico was recognized for pioneering multiple initiatives, such as the Cricket in Prisons program that promotes inmate rehabilitation through cricket sessions. Chairman of Mexico Cricket, Ben Owen, described winning the award as 'a huge honor' as they continue to expand the sport in Central America.

Oman's Cricket4Her program, aimed at transforming women's cricket, also earned accolades. The initiative has led to the rapid development of women's cricket in the country. Chairman of Oman Cricket, Mr. Pankaj Khimji, noted that the award places the country 'on a pedestal,' especially after a successful year that saw them qualify for the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023.

In the Netherlands, Chief Executive of the KNCB, Monica Visser, praised the efforts of their playing group and staff. Similarly, the rise of the Emirati women's team was noteworthy, as they went unbeaten at the ICC Women's T20 World Cup Asia Qualifier. General Secretary of Emirates Cricket Board, Mubashshir Usmani, marked the award as a 'proud moment.'

Nepal saw significant growth, particularly across social media, where their reach expanded by over 400%. Former men's captain and current secretary of the Cricket Association of Nepal, Paras Khadka, acknowledged the contributions of both his association and the millions of supportive fans.

Lastly, Cricket Scotland's partnership with the charity Beyond Boundaries focused on supporting disadvantaged and underrepresented youth through cricket. The head of development for Cricket Scotland, Nicola Wilson, stated that this collaboration is 'key to transforming lives.'

(With inputs from agencies.)