The International Council of Cricket Academies (ICCA) announced the eagerly-anticipated ICCA Champions Trophy, a premier junior cricket event scheduled to unfold in Colombo from 18-27 December.
This tournament promises to bring together top-notch academy teams from renowned cricket-playing nations, offering a platform for emerging talents to display their skills and nurturing international cricketing camaraderie. All matches will adhere to ICC playing conditions and will be held at first-class venues in Colombo.
Participating academy teams are Desert Cubs Cricket Academy, the UAE; Mercantile Cricket Association (MCA) Academy, Sri Lanka; Karnataka Institute of Cricket (KIOC), Bangalore, India; and Ramah Sports Academy, Harare, Zimbabwe.
The tournament is jointly managed by Desert Cubs Cricket Academy and Mercantile Cricket Association, with Sargia as the logistics and event partner.
A dedicated team of professionals is overseeing the arrangements to ensure a seamless and exciting experience for participants and spectators.
Format and age groups are Under 13 – 40 overs and Under 15 – 50 overs.
Key event highlights include a grand opening ceremony and league matches.
The tournament will kick off with a spectacular opening ceremony on 18 December at 5 p.m. at MCA, featuring cultural dance performances to enhance the festive atmosphere.
The league matches will be held from 19-26 December, with the teams competing in a round-robin format, playing six matches each in their respective age groups.
Scheduled rest days are on 22 and 25 December for players to rejuvenate and explore famous tourist attractions in the paradise island.
The top two teams in each age group will qualify for the finals on 27 December, with the remaining two teams competing for the 3rd and 4th place on the same day.
All matches will be played with the pink ball, adding a unique and thrilling dimension to the tournament.
The tournament will culminate in a prestigious awards presentation and gala dinner on 27 December. Esteemed Sri Lankan cricketers, both current and former, are expected to attend the occasion, adding glamour and inspiration to the celebration.
(themorning.lk)
