Auckland Cricket is pleased to announce a new partnership with Auckland Indoor Cricket (AIC), focused on supporting and growing cricket participation across the region.

The three-year agreement, which commenced on 1 March 2026, brings the two organisations together to strengthen development opportunities for players, particularly juniors and women and girls, while creating stronger connections between indoor and outdoor cricket pathways.

Through the partnership, Auckland Cricket will assist in promoting indoor cricket competitions, leagues and representative programmes through its digital channels, while also providing communications support and collaboration on player development initiatives. Auckland Indoor Cricket will work closely with Auckland Cricket to share participation opportunities, support promotion of outdoor cricket pathways, and contribute to joint initiatives designed to grow the game.

Both organisations share a commitment to providing positive cricket experiences that help players develop their skills in fun, inclusive environments while building friendships, teamwork and resilience.

“This partnership reflects our shared ambition to expand opportunities for players to stay connected to cricket year-round and to strengthen engagement opportunities across the Auckland region,” said Auckland Cricket CEO Ian Francis.

“Indoor cricket provides a fantastic environment for skill development and engagement, and we’re excited to work alongside Auckland Indoor Cricket to grow the game together.”

Warwick Simmons, Action Sports Stadium owner and New Zealand Indoor Cricket board member, is excited about the partnership and the opportunities it will create for young cricketers across Auckland.

“This partnership agreement between Auckland Cricket and Auckland Indoor Cricket is brilliant news for the game of cricket. Both organisations will now work together to support and grow junior cricket in the region, for boys and girls,” says Simmons.

“Indoor Cricket provides young players with a fantastic opportunity to develop their skills, stay connected with the game during the winter months, and enjoy playing with their friends.

“Many outstanding New Zealand cricketers have benefited from indoor cricket pathways. Finn Allen and Jimmy Neesham in represented New Zealand at Indoor Cricket after starting as juniors.

“Many of the Auckland Hearts players played Indoor Cricket at Primary, Intermediate and College level. Maddy Green, Bree Illing, Fran Jonas, Ayaan Lambat and Amie Hucker were all notable Indoor Cricket representatives.”

The partnership will also see the organisations collaborate on shared projects, promotion of tournaments and leagues, and opportunities for sponsors to support indoor cricket initiatives.

A formal review of the partnership will take place after the first 12 months, with both organisations committed to ongoing collaboration to enhance participation and player development across Auckland cricket.

Article added: Monday 23 March 2026