Women's World Cup proves useful for Under-19 event planning

Countries taking part in the ICC Under-19 World Cup in New Zealand next year have until October 1 to let organisers know whether they will require practice matches before the tournament.

One of New Zealand Cricket's organising committee, Catherine Campbell who, as well as playing for New Zealand in last year's CricInfo Women's World Cup for the successful CLEAR White Ferns, was involved in the organisation of that event and has plenty of experience from that event to call on.

She said the basic formula that was in place for the women's event made preparing for the under-19 event next year a lot easier, although there were more logistical concerns with more teams coming next year.

The fact that two pools are being played outside of Christchurch, one in Auckland and one in Dunedin, meant that there were some extra problems getting warm-up games organised in those venues.

Planning is also helped by the fact that instead of having to leave the organising committee three weeks before the women's event last year in order to prepare herself, Campbell will be involved throughout next year's under-19 event.

"There a few more accountabilities with the International Cricket Council's involvement that we didn't have last year, and the ICC also has to report to the World Sports Group on how things are going," she said.

New Zealand Cricket is about to appoint its liaison officers for all teams and ground staff for the grounds involved in the competition. It has had good responses to volunteers for the positions.

As was the case last year, the tournament has proven ideal for students at Lincoln University where two pools are based and where all play from the Super League stage on will be held. Those studying sports management have great chances to gain practical experience in the event.

"Lots of people want to be on the groundstaff. For people keen on cricket it's a great way to be involved during the summer," she said.