Saudi Arabia's World Cricket Festival intends to establish a brand-new athletic infrastructure for cricket.
In a historic moment for sports in Saudi Arabia, the World Cricket Festival (WCF) was launched in Riyadh on Friday night. The event, a joint venture between Cricket Investment Co. (CIC), the commercial arm of the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation (SACF), and Infinix, marked a significant step forward in the development of cricket in the Kingdom.
At the launch, high-profile leaders and investors gathered to witness the unveiling of the vision behind "cricketainment." The new initiative aims to create a new ecosystem for cricket, fostering growth and excitement around the sport.
Pakistani spinners Saqlain Mushatq and Yasir Shah, and Indian test cricketer Waseem Jaffer were among those in attendance, praising the SACF's efforts in developing cricket in Saudi Arabia. SACF Chairman Prince Saud bin Mishal Al Saud thanked the CIC for its support of the sport, expressing hope that young cricketers would make their names in the Kingdom.
The WCF includes a series of tournaments, such as the F2 Double Wicket World Cup 2025 in Jeddah, F20 Season-2, Saudi Corporate Premier League, Gulf Premier League, and soft ball cricket leagues. In addition, Infinix, in partnership with the SACF, will create the first ICC-standard cricket grounds in Saudi Arabia within six months. Two such stadiums will be built, one in Riyadh and another in Jeddah, with more to follow in other cities.
This partnership represents the first strategic partnership between CIC and the private sector, signifying a new approach to cricket development in Saudi Arabia. It's part of an initiative to enable the private sector within Saudi Arabia for the development of cricket.
The launch event also welcomed Saudi cricket team captain Hisham Sheikh, who expressed his gratitude for leading the Saudi team and being present at the WCF launch. The event aims to create a new era for cricket in Saudi Arabia, fostering a love for the sport among the local population and providing opportunities for young players to shine.
With the construction of these new cricket stadiums and the launch of the WCF, Saudi Arabia is set to become a hub for cricket in the region, offering exciting prospects for both players and fans alike.
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