The International Cricket Association recognized the contributions of non-full member countries for their significant impact on cricket. Six countries were named as the winners of the ICC Development Awards for 2023. These awards were given to the Associate Members for their various successful projects. Mexico, Oman, Netherlands, United Arab Emirates, Nepal, and Scotland were recognized in six different categories. The winners were chosen from a list of 21 countries by a special panel of the ICC Development Awards. These awards, started in 2002, highlight the excellent work done by the ICC’s Associate Member countries, whether through new development programs or impressive performances on the cricket field.
Mexico received the ICC Development Initiative of the Year award for its innovative projects. These projects included sending a team to the Street Child Cricket World Cup in India and their special Cricket in Prisons program. In this program, they hold cricket sessions in prisons in Mexico City to help improve the rehabilitation of the prisoners. Mexico is now recognized in the cricket world, even though it is more known for its football.
Oman received the 100% Cricket Female Cricket Initiative of the Year award, which was designed to change how women’s cricket is seen in the country. Oman started the Cricket 4 her program to create a setting that supports the growth of talent, improves skills, and gives women more power.
The Netherlands received the ICC Associate Member Men’s Performance of the Year award following their impressive 2023. The team secured a spot in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 by defeating West Indies and Scotland. They also managed to beat teams like Bangladesh and South Africa in the competition.
The United Arab Emirates won the ICC Associate Member Women’s Performance of the Year. The UAE women’s team remained undefeated at the Women’s T20 World Cup Asia Qualifier and finished with a victory in the final match of the tournament.
Nepal received the ICC Digital Fan Engagement Initiative of the Year award because they experienced significant growth. Their reach on Facebook increased by more than 400%.
Scotland was awarded the Cricket 4 Good Social Impact Initiative of the Year for partnering with Beyond Boundaries, a Scottish charity. They use cricket programs to help young, disadvantaged, and under-represented individuals in the country.
