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Over 160 players from 6 different nations competed in the new format
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Teams representing India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Australia took part
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Australia B moved through tournament undefeated to claim trophy
Northern Territory Cricket showcased the most diverse community in the country with the conclusion of the 2024 Multicultural Cup over the 19-20 October weekend. It was an all-Australian final, with Australia ‘B’ securing a 7-wicket victory against a young Australia ‘A’ side comprised of the Northern Territory’s most promising U17 and U19s male players.
This year’s event took on a new format and identity, with players and teams representing their country of origin or heritage, supporting the principle aim of bringing the diverse and rapidly growing cricket community in the Top End closer together.
The event had 10 teams competing under the banners of India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Australia, supporting Cricket Australia’s recently released Multicultural Action Plan (2023-2027) which identifies the Northern Territory as having the highest percentage (61%) in the country of ‘one or more parents born overseas’.
Played over the first three weekends of October, competitors braved the hot and humid ‘build-up’ conditions to showcase their love and passion for the game, with over 160 players from 6 different countries coming together for 28 matches across 3 venues.
Some of Darwin’s best cricketers ensured a high standard of cricket, with NT Strike player Hamish Martin claiming Player of the Tournament for his 243 runs, 6 wickets and 3 catches for an India ‘A’ team that narrowly lost in the semi-finals.
Nick Winter, NTC Head of Cricket said:
"NT Cricket's involvement in this year's Multicultural Cup reinforced our commitment to Cricket Australia's Multicultural Action Plan, aiming to celebrate our communities' diverse cultures.
The event is all about inclusivity, so it was great to see player ages ranging from 13 through to 55 and so many parts of our community get behind the event.
We look forward to further opportunities to promote Darwin's multicultural community and building on this event in years to come."
Udara Weerasinghe, Tournament Ambassador said:
"The multicultural community of the Northern Territory has an incredible passion for cricket and I'm looking forward to the competition continuing to grow and develop.”