Asian Games cricket row: Japan Cricket CEO says teams can make own arrangements

Japanese cricket officials have clarified that participating teams in the upcoming Asian Games are free to make their own accommodation arrangements, addressing growing concerns over logistical challenges ahead of the event. The Japanese Cricket Association (JCA) CEO, Naoki Alex Miyaji, stated during a recent Asian Cricket Council (ACC) meeting that while hotel accommodations are being offered, teams retain autonomy in choosing where to stay. This comes amid worries about the distance between the designated hotel and the Korogi Sports Park in Nisshin City, Aichi Prefecture, where cricket matches will take place. The Asian Games are set to commence on September 17. Miyaji emphasized that the JCA plays a limited role in organizing the games, which are being managed by the Aichi-Nagoya Games Organizing Committee (AINAGOC) in partnership with the ACC under the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA). He noted that the JCA has contributed support in certain areas but is not directly involved in answering specific logistical queries. “What I can say is that all parties are working hard to ensure the success of Cricket in the Asian Games,” Miyaji said. He added that discussions regarding accommodation options have been ongoing between AINAGOC and the ACC for an extended period. In addition to accommodation concerns, there have been reports about the location of team washrooms potentially being up to half a kilometre away from the playing area. Miyaji dismissed these claims, stating that toilets will be available within the player area. Both temporary and permanent facilities are being made available at the venue. He highlighted that while the facilities on the ground are temporary, AINAGOC has collaborated closely with the ACC for over a year to ensure optimal conditions within the given constraints. Miyaji also addressed concerns about the makeshift dressing rooms being prepared for the tournament. He assured that despite being temporary, the spaces will offer as comfortable an environment as possible for players and officials. Permanent facilities are also available around the ground for use by the teams. The JCA has focused its efforts on promoting local interest in cricket through outreach programs, including visits to schools and shopping centers, which have received positive responses from the community. The Korogi Sports Park was constructed from scratch due to the lack of existing cricket infrastructure in Aichi Prefecture. Miyaji explained that organizers had just 17 months to develop the venue, starting from zero. Despite these limitations, he expressed confidence in the quality of the playing surfaces, noting that Sri Lanka Cricket has provided curators to assist in preparing the turf and hybrid pitches. “It will be a full-size ground with turf and hybrid pitches prepared by the best curators,” he said. “From what I have seen, the playing surface and field will be among the best seen in Cricket's inclusion in the Asian Games.” Miyaji concluded his remarks by expressing optimism about the future of cricket in Japan, citing the enthusiastic reception from the local community. He reiterated the JCA’s commitment to fostering local interest in the sport and ensuring the successful hosting of the Asian Games. As preparations continue, the focus remains on delivering a competitive and enjoyable experience for athletes and spectators alike.