Cricket Ireland Approves Record-Breaking 2024 Budget with Increased Investment Across High Performance and Grassroots Game
Cricket Ireland Approves Record Budget for 2024 Season
The Board of Cricket Ireland has recently approved its 2024 budget, signaling a new era for Irish cricket with increased investment across high performance, grassroots, facilities, and infrastructure. The €16.1 million expenditure represents a €2.35 million increase from the previous year and is the highest investment on record for the national governing body of Irish cricket.
The Board has mandated that any additional funding from the International Cricket Council member distribution be allocated towards rebalancing investment priorities between high performance, grassroots, and facilities. This strategic decision aims to grow the sport at all levels, from grassroots to the international arena.
Brian MacNeice, Chair of Cricket Ireland, expressed the Board’s commitment to nurturing cricket across all levels of the game. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that the uplift in funding benefits the entire sport, with a focus on supporting male and female players, grassroots participation, and enhancing facilities and infrastructure.
The budget projections for 2024 indicate a €480,000 surplus, which will aid in loan repayments to the ICC and help Cricket Ireland return to a positive reserve position in the coming years. CEO Warren Deutrom highlighted the anticipated funding from the ICC over the next four years, emphasizing the need to strategically allocate resources to areas that will have the most impact on the sport.
The 2024 budget includes significant investments in game development, provincial unions, high performance programs, facilities, venues, and operations. Notable enhancements include increased funding for participation activities, support for Provincial Unions, and a focus on strengthening the men’s and women’s international cricket programs.
Overall, the approved budget sets Cricket Ireland on a path towards sustainable growth and development, with a clear focus on expanding the sport at all levels. The Board and staff are excited for the future of Irish cricket and are committed to building a strong foundation for long-term success.