THE sound of leather on willow will echo across Lakeba next month as eight island teams clash in the Lau Provincial Cricket Competition, a competition that commemorates the installation of the Tui Nayau, Sau ni Vanua ko Lau and Tui Lau.
For the first time, cricket will be played as part of this chiefly celebration, with matches set from July 1-5 at Tubou and Yadrana grounds.
The tournament brings together Lau’s best cricketing islands in what organisers are calling a “State of Origin” for the province.
Cricket Fiji chief executive officer Sitiveni Rokoro says the competition is more than just a game, it’s a revival of pride, identity and opportunity.
“Cricket is part of Lau’s heritage. Many national players come from these islands, and this is our way of reigniting that legacy and reconnecting communities,” Rokoro said.
The T20-format matches will be played under ICC rules and regulations.
Pool 1 features Lakeba, Moce, Fulaga and Namuka, while Pool 2 includes Kabara, Ono, Oneata and Cicia.
Committee chairman Sunia Digova Lesivou says the games will be fast, competitive and full of energy.
“It will also be a way to revive cricket in some of these islands where this game has been dormant and influence the youths to be more involved in the vanua obligations as well as sports,” he said.
Kabara, who were runners-up in the 2025 National Easter Cricket Tournament that took place last week at Albert Park in Suva, are seen as early favorites.
Moce, Ono-I-Lau and hosts Lakeba are also expected to impress.
A Lau team will be selected after the competition, with plans underway for an overseas tour supported by the Lauan diaspora.
Lesivou says this could become an annual event.
“It’s the perfect way to honor the Tui Nayau reviving a sport rooted in Lau’s past and inspiring the next generation.”
