Fiji Cricket Team Guide
The Fiji cricket team represents Fiji in international cricket. They have been an associate member of the International Cricket Council (ICC) since 1965. The team’s history dates back to the late 19th century.
History of Fiji Cricket Team
Cricket was first introduced to Fiji by European settlers in 1874. The native Fijians began playing the sport in 1878. Fiji started playing first-class cricket just 21 years after its introduction, with their first tour to New Zealand in 1895. The first international for the Fiji cricket team was against the Australian cricket team, and over the years, Fiji has participated in various international tournaments and has a rich history of cricketing events.
Where Does The Fiji Cricket Team Play?
The Fiji cricket team has played matches at various venues, one of which is Albert Park in Suva. This is the main ground which has hosted many visiting international cricket teams.
Former Captains Of The Fiji Cricket Team
One of the notable captains from Fiji’s early cricketing days was John Udal, who led the team during their 1895 tour of New Zealand.
Another significant figure for the Fjii cricket team is Ratu Kamisese Mara, who later became the Prime Minister and President of Fiji. He served as Fiji’s Chief Minister from 1967 to 1970, subsequently becoming the Prime Minister from 1970 to 1992, with a brief interruption in 1987. Later, he served as the President from 1993 to 2000. His tenure saw Fiji gaining independence from the United Kingdom.
Top Run Scorers In Fiji Cricket Team History
One of the standout players for Fiji was IL Bula, who scored the most runs and the only century during the 1948 tour of New Zealand. Bula’s full name, Ilikena Lasarusa Talebulamainavaleniveivakabulaimainakulalakebalau, is believed to be the longest of any first-class cricketer. In his career between 2007 and 2015, Josefa Falani Rika was the first to record over 800 runs for the Fiji cricket team, with him often regarded as one of the country’s best ever players.
Top Wicket Takers In Fiji Cricket Team History
Between 1997 and and 2013, right arm off break bowler Iniasi Cakacaka was the first player to surpass 40 wickets for the Fiji cricket team, an impressive feat.
Memorable Games For The Fiji Cricket Team
A significant match in Fiji’s cricket history was in 1956 when they faced the West Indies cricket team. Despite being bowled out for 91, Fiji managed to win by 28 runs, mainly due to John Gosling’s six-wicket haul. This was a significant game considering the grand status of their opponent.
Rivals Of The Fiji Cricket Team
The Fiji cricket team has participated in various international and regional matches, though specific long standing rivalries have not yet been built. However, there have been competitive interactions with other teams in the region. For instance, during the ICC Men’s T20 Cricket World Cup East Asia-Pacific Qualifier, the Fiji cricket team played against the Vanuatu cricket team, with the latter team winning by 57 runs.
In another match on September 15, 2022, Fiji beat the Samoa cricket team by 30 runs, with these nations having highly competitive matches in the past.
