Annual ICC Meeting Report
Published at 01 August, 2025Once a year, the chairmen and CEOs of all cricketing nations worldwide gather for an Annual General Meeting. Formal matters (finances, committee elections) are discussed here. There are also workshops for inspiration, and numerous discussions take place between (groups of) cricketing nations about fixtures, the organization of the ICC, collaboration, et cetera.
This year's AGM took place in Singapore from July 18 to 21. KNCB chairman Guido Landheer attended the meeting for the Netherlands.
In the plenary session with the Associate nations, voting rights within the ICC for all Associates were discussed, and the distinction between 'voting' and 'non-voting' nations was eliminated. During these meetings, the Netherlands — along with Scotland, among others — drew attention to the special situation of 'high-performing Associates' — such as the Netherlands — which are ambitious but also face volatility in funding. Qualifying for a World Cup offers greater financial resources, but failing to qualify means these resources disappear. This model, therefore, doesn't facilitate the realization of these countries' long-term ambitions. There have been calls for the ICC to create more stability regarding match schedules and reduce volatility in funding. The Financial Committee had provided Landheer with recommendations on this matter in advance. It was agreed that the Netherlands, along with several other countries, would write a paper on this topic, which will be discussed within the ICC.
Much inspiration was drawn from information on how other countries are approaching cricket development and women's cricket. Many countries are very active in this area. During one of the workshops, the final Tri-Series for the World Cup 20 qualifying round was used as an example of how to actively involve young people in these types of events. Kudos to the VCC and the Bondsbureau!
Discussions were held with various Associate countries and Full Members such as South Africa, Zimbabwe, Pakistan, and Ireland (ETPL) about hosting matches and how we can collaborate within the ICC.
Finally, it was a wonderful and convivial reunion of chairmen and CEOs of cricket associations from around the world who are committed to the growth of our beautiful sport.
Photo: KNCB chairman Guido Landheer with the president of the Italian Cricket Federation Maria Lorena Haz Paz and Andy Wright (ICC).
