Kuwait Cricket Association

The New Zealand Sports Turf Institute are consultants to Asian Cricket Council (ACC) regarding cricket pitches in developing cricketing nations of the region. Sports Turf Advisor Peter Munro was on visit to Kuwait recently to evaluate, advise and make recommendations about cricket pitches here. The following interview was conducted during his stay here:

Q: As this is your first visit to Kuwait so what image about Kuwait and Kuwait cricket you had before coming here? And how you did you find it?

A: During the last 15 years Kuwait has been in news the world over and I did have an idea that it is a small country both in terms of area and population. I was briefed about the pitches by my colleagues who have been here earlier. During the few days I was here, I observed that it is a very civilized and vibrant society and everyone shows a lot of hospitality. The modern buildings, excellent road network, and abundance of palm trees make this city state really an oasis in the desert. Driving on 7^th Ring Road was indeed a great experience as you can see the desert with mirages on one side and 21^st century cities on the other side.

-------------------Mr. Peter Munro with KCA officials at Ahmadi Cricket Ground

Q: What are your impressions of the cricket pitches and facilities here?

A: Keeping in mind the climatic conditions and the fact that Kuwait Cricket Association is less than a decade old, the achievements so far are really excellent. The Pavilion with all amenities and net facilities at KOC grounds really deserve appreciation. Doha is a picturesque location and the clubhouse reminds me of an English village cricket setting. The new upcoming ground in Sulabiya indicates that KCA is implementing a development program with lot of zeal and spirit. Then we have to remember that every country which now boasts the best pitches and facilities did have a humble beginning.

Q: How do you rate the cricket facilities in Kuwait compared to other countries in the region and what is your expectation about the future of cricket in Kuwait?

A:   Without being too specific, I can say that Kuwait has achieved a lot within a very short time span. While making judgments one has to take into consideration the weather conditions, availability of resources, professionally trained man power, short and long-term plans of the governing body and last but definitely very important, is the keenness and will to move forward.
     Kuwait climate is very harsh and extraordinary efforts are needed to construct and maintain the turf pitches. KCA with the help and support from ACC has done a tremendous job till now. KCA should feel very proud of the achievements. The plan to have five turf pitches by 2007 may sound slightly ambitious at this point in time, but definitely it is not impossible. I had an opportunity to meet almost all of the leading KCA officials and without any hesitation I can say that they are extremely committed to the cause of developing cricket here.
    I am not in a position to comment about overall future of cricket in Kuwait but I   can limit my answer to my field of specialization i.e. pitches and grounds. Yes I can very confidently anticipate steady and metric rise of cricket facilities in this beautiful and harmonious country. Even now, UAE apart, Kuwait can boast best cricket pitches and facilities in the Arabian Gulf region.

Q: What recommendation you intend to make to ACC about Kuwait cricket after this visit?

A:   Yes it is customary that a visiting delegate submits a report to ACC after the visit. This visit to Kuwait was a great experience for me. I found that everyone has not only the passion and desire to rise, rather they have knowledge and expertise   as well to do so. Trained curators and the results achieved so far indicate that efforts and resources provided by ACC have been utilized to the fullest. I will recommend to ACC to continue to provide resources and equipment to make new pitches and maintain the existing facilities.

------_-----Mr. Asad Baig, Mr. Peter Munro and Mr. Javed Khokar at Entertainment City Kuwait
Q: How you would like to sum up your visit?

A: Compared to my experiences around the world and the many races of people I have met , I can say I was among some of the friendliest people in the country that is keeping pace with the world but yet very traditional too especially the Arabic cuisines which taste great. Everything put together it is place where I would love to come back some day.

In terms of cricket, you are a very fast moving country showing great results in all departments of the game. Kuwait’s elevation as full member of ACC and Associate member of ICC within just nine years of KCA formation is an acknowledgement at the highest level. I am very hopeful my subsequent visit will find Kuwait cricket a step forward. Availing this opportunity I wish to thank everyone in KCA for all the hospitality extended to me during my visit