Future is bright for local cricket says Lyons as he attends Ireland v New Zealand test
Date published:
Communities Minister Gordon Lyons highlighted the bright future for local cricket as he watched the Ireland cricket team take on New Zealand in the first day of the test match at Stormont today.
This will be the second test match to be hosted at Stormont and the first time welcoming New Zealand to Belfast.
Minister Lyons said:
“I welcome the New Zealand team to Belfast and hope they enjoy a very warm reception.
“The Ireland team have a tough task as they take on one of the very best teams in world cricket but I wish them every success.
“It is fantastic that Stormont is hosting its second test match in just two years and points to a bright future for local cricket.
“With the 2030 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup on the horizon, I will continue working with partners to ensure Northern Ireland, and Belfast, plays a key role in delivering this prestigious global tournament.”
The Minister added:
“I congratulate the Stormont Pavilion ground staff, the Northern Ireland Civil Service Sports Association (NICSSA) and Cricket Ireland on securing this match and developing such an outstanding international venue.”
Sarah Keane, CEO of Cricket Ireland, said:
“We are delighted with the support of Minister Lyons for cricket across Northern Ireland, and in their willingness to work with the Irish government on improving facilities that will sustain and grow the game for years to come.
“Given cricket is a very welcoming and highly inclusive sport in Ireland, an investment in cricket is indeed an investment in strengthening communities, in particular, creating cross-cultural experiences and a greater sense of shared values.”
Notes to editors:
- Photo caption: Communities Minister Gordon Lyons pictured with Bryan O’Donnell, President, Cricket Ireland and Sarah Keane, Chief Executive Officer, Cricket Ireland at day one of the Ireland v New Zealand test match at Stormont.
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