Two South Asian teams have been invited to participate in the 2025 Rangatahi Cricket Festival in Auckland.
The youth-focused cricket event aims to engage young people, particularly those from Māori and Pasifika communities in secondary schools, in the sport while celebrating their cultural identities.
Established in 2017, the Māori secondary schoolboy and schoolgirl teams provide an opportunity for young cricketers of Māori whakapapa to represent their whānau, hāpu, iwi and kura.
The inaugural Rangatahi Cricket Festival took place in 2022/23 in Auckland, featuring matches between Māori secondary schools and Pasifika secondary schools.
Its second iteration followed from 31 January 2023 to 2 February 2024, continuing the celebration of cricket and culture.
This year, the Auckland South Asian U19 boys' and girls' teams will join the festival as invitational sides, playing against the Aotearoa Māori Schools and Pasifika U19 teams.
While the South Asian teams will not compete for the trophy, their participation marks a significant step in fostering inclusivity and representation within the event.
"Having the opportunity to be a part of the South Asian team excites me, as it gives us a chance to embrace our culture through doing something we all love," said Simi Bajaj, a member of the Auckland U19 women's team.
"This being the first South Asian girls' team makes it even more special," Bajaj said.
"I can't wait to connect with my new teammates and develop some camaraderie out on the field.
"Hopefully, we can inspire more boys and girls of South Asian heritage to pick up the sport."
Blackcaps spin star Ajaz Patel Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Now in its third season, the Rangatahi Cricket Festival has become a popular platform for players seeking to connect with their cultural roots while competing at a higher level.
"The Rangatahi Cricket Festival is a great initiative to introduce players to more competitive cricket, while also embracing their cultural heritage," Blackcaps spinner Ajaz Patel said.
"It has been awesome to see more players from different cultures and backgrounds emerging onto our professional cricket scene in recent times."
The festival kicked off Wednesday at Cornwall Park and Melville Park.
"I have no doubt a tournament like this will promote the next generation of stars," Patel said.
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