
A landmark partnership between Interchange Limited (ICL) and the Vanuatu Cricket Association (VCA) is set to transform women’s cricket in Vanuatu, expanding opportunities for players and strengthening grassroots development. Announced at a signing ceremony in Port Vila on January 30th, the collaboration cements ICL’s position as a Platinum Sponsor for Vanuatu Cricket, reinforcing its commitment to community upliftment and national recovery efforts following the December 17th earthquake.
Expanding the Game Across Vanuatu
As part of the agreement, ICL will support a series of initiatives aimed at boosting women’s cricket participation and strengthening regional ties. These include:
The launch of the Interchange National Cricket Academy, which will provide structured training programs across three provinces in 2025, with plans to expand to four in 2026. The academy will ensure that aspiring cricketers from Santo and Tanna receive the same high-quality training as those in the capital, with oversight from Vanuatu’s top coaching staff.
The expansion of Women’s Island Cricket tournaments on Efate and Tanna, fostering an inclusive environment and encouraging greater participation among women at the grassroots level. The tournaments will also serve as talent identification platforms for national development squads.
The formation of Vanuatu’s first-ever U19 Women’s National Team, marking a historic milestone for women’s sport in the country. With ICL’s support, the team will have access to professional coaching, competitive match experience, and international exposure as they prepare for their maiden international tournament in 2026.
An international women’s cricket tournament in New Caledonia, where Vanuatu’s national team—its highest-ranked sporting side—will face France, Fiji, and Samoa in March. This event will not only provide competitive experience but will also strengthen Vanuatu’s presence in international cricket.
Government and Industry Leaders Applaud the Initiative
Director General of the Prime Minister’s Office, Cherol Ala, praised the initiative, emphasising its broader social impact. “Cricket is not just a game—it provides a safe space for women to connect, share experiences, and build confidence. The sport's growth in SANMA and TAFEA provinces highlights its role in community development and gender inclusivity,” she said.
ICL General Manager Niall Downey reinforced the company’s dedication to investing in Vanuatu’s future. “As a leading telecommunications provider, we believe in connecting people not just through technology, but through meaningful social initiatives. With our 1,000% increase in bandwidth capacity coming this year, we are helping to build a stronger, more connected nation—on and off the field. Supporting women’s cricket is just one way we can make a lasting impact.”
VCA CEO Tim Cutler described the partnership as a game-changer for women’s cricket. “This collaboration with ICL allows us to take our women’s programs to new heights. The launch of the Interchange Academy and the U19 women’s team represents the next step in developing elite cricketing talent in Vanuatu,” Cutler said. “We now have more women wanting to play cricket than we have resources to accommodate, and this partnership will help us bridge that gap, ensuring that no aspiring player is left behind.”
Also attending the signing ceremony was national women’s vice-captain Alvina Chilia, who was the first female to represent Vanuatu in international cricket when she was selected to play as part of a boys’ team in a regional under 15 tournament in 2009 .
Investing in the Future
Interchange Limited, a cornerstone of Vanuatu’s technological infrastructure, is playing a vital role in expanding access to affordable internet while simultaneously investing in grassroots sports. The company’s upcoming 1,000% increase in bandwidth capacity is set to revolutionize connectivity in Vanuatu, making data more accessible and affordable nationwide.
With over 25,000 participants engaged in cricket annually, the VCA continues to use sport as a tool for empowerment, particularly among young women and underserved communities. The new initiatives supported by ICL will ensure that cricket remains an accessible and inclusive sport, fostering leadership, teamwork, and personal growth among Vanuatu’s youth.
This latest partnership marks a significant step forward in Vanuatu’s cricketing journey, fostering talent, strengthening communities, and putting Vanuatu’s women’s team on the map as they prepare to compete internationally.
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