Cricket Australia’s T20 World Cup Multicultural Legacy Program has led to a remarkable 29 per cent increase in participation in entry-level cricket programs among culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities, with over 26,000 participants engaged over the last two years.
This initiative, supported by a $4.4 million contribution from the Australian Government’s Major Event Legacy Fund, capitalised on the momentum of the 2022 ICC T20 Men’s World Cup and has successfully connected with CALD communities across the nation.
Key components of the Legacy Program include cricket clinics, tape-ball cricket tournaments, coaching and officiating training, and cultural festivals, all designed to boost multicultural involvement in the sport.
A major partner in this effort, the Usman Khawaja Foundation (UKF), has engaged more than 3,500 participants from diverse backgrounds, offering educational and training opportunities through cricket.
Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley praised the program for being a “transformative initiative” that extends cricket’s reach and creates lasting opportunities for multicultural communities. He also commended Usman Khawaja, calling him “a true role model” whose commitment to the community continues to inspire young people.
A standout achievement of the Legacy Program is the launch of Australian Cricket’s Multicultural Action Plan, which strengthens engagement and inclusion across the sport. The program has also introduced the Multicultural Ambassador Program, a collective of 57 prominent leaders advocating for inclusivity within cricket and broader Australian society.
Some notable results of the Legacy Program include:
- A record 1,000 South Asian participants per month engaged in the Winter Woolworths Cricket Blast and junior competitions from May to July 2024.
- The introduction of innovative leagues, such as the Sydney Thunder Tape Ball League and the SQUAD Bangladesh T20 National Championships, attracting participants from multicultural communities.
- The launch of cultural festivals like ‘The Outfield,’ celebrating Pakistan’s rich heritage with food, music, and cricket.
Minister for Sport Hon Anika Wells MP expressed her pride in the program’s success, stating, “This is what it looks like when sport prioritises inclusion.” She highlighted the significant role of the Albanese Government’s support in driving this positive change.
Usman Khawaja, the Australian cricket star and founder of the UKF, reflected on the foundation’s role in breaking down barriers and creating meaningful connections: “Cricket has the power to break down barriers, and it’s rewarding to see so many young people from multicultural backgrounds embrace the game.”
As Cricket Australia continues its collaboration with the UKF, the focus remains on ensuring that cricket is accessible to all, fostering an environment where young people from diverse communities can thrive both on and off the field.
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