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Today’s scheduled matches have unfortunately been cancelled due to weather conditions and the impact on pitch surfaces. After ongoing rain and careful assessment of the grounds, tournament organisers made the decision to call off play to ensure player safety and to protect the quality of the wickets for the remainder of the competition. While it’s always disappointing to lose a day of cricket, particularly in a tournament that has already created so many memorable moments and

Last night on TVNZ One News , viewers were treated to an inspiring and heart-warming feature on a cricket tournament that proves age is truly just a number. The news report showcased the Over-70s tournament currently underway — a vibrant celebration of sport, community and resilience that’s capturing hearts across Aotearoa. While big-ticket sporting events often dominate headlines, it was refreshing to see the spotlight turned towards a competition where experience, passion a

A memorable milestone has been recorded at the Over 70s Cricket World Cup, with Farooq Kirmani, captain of the Canada Over-70s cricket team, scoring the first century of the competition. Kirmani produced a superb captain’s innings, bringing up the tournament’s first hundred in 125 minutes  before finishing unbeaten on 136 not out . His knock helped power Canada to an impressive 274/4 from their 45 overs . Batting with control and confidence, Kirmani built his innings steadily

Some eccentrics are born. Others thrust eccentricity upon themselves. Step forward Brent “Billy” Bowden the NZ umpiring sensation who shot to fame with a zany array of embellished signals and an eye for showmanship. Billy was forced to retire from playing cricket at an early age because of rheumatoid arthritis. Hence the crooked finger salute when giving batsman out, and there have been many great ones who have been hooked from the field. The Veteran umpire, if we can call hi

Following their morning net session, Team Canada enjoyed a special behind-the-scenes tour of the Hagley Oval Cricket Precinct yesterday, gaining a deeper appreciation for one of New Zealand’s premier cricket venues ahead of their tournament fixtures. Led by Suzanne Pearce, Executive Manager of Canterbury Cricket Trust, the group explored the iconic Hadlee Pavilion, including the player facilities and the Miles Group Members Lounge. From the changing rooms, to viewing lounges

Stephen Wallis turns his attention to the second Men’s Over 70s World Cup, taking place in Christchurch, New Zealand between February and 5 March. He is joined by Lance Ryan, Chairman of the World Cup Organising Committee, to discuss the planning behind the tournament, while England captain John Evans, Australian all-rounder Murray Harrison and New Zealand’s Jeremy Wilson look ahead to the global event. Check it out here https://chrt.fm/track/4F8ACF/pscrb.fm/rss/p/traffic.meg

Two matches scheduled for 20th February 2026. Following the rain earlier this week, the Over 70s World Cup Local Organising Committee (LOC) inspected a number of cricket blocks and outfields this morning to assess ground conditions. After careful consideration, the decision has been made to relocate two matches, due to be played on Friday 20th February, to grass wickets to ensure play can proceed safely and to the best possible standard. The updated venue details are as follo

Persistent poor weather across Christchurch over the past two days has led to the cancellation of all Round 1 matches at the Over 70’s Cricket World Cup. Ongoing rain and unplayable ground conditions around Christchurch  meant that, despite best efforts, it was not possible to safely proceed with the opening round of fixtures as scheduled. While disappointing for players eager to take the field, the decision was made with the safety of participants and the quality of play as

A Warm Welcome Despite the Weather: Opening Ceremony Sets the Tone The Over 70’s Cricket World Cup was officially underway following a memorable Opening Ceremony that proved Christchurch hospitality shines, rain or shine. Originally scheduled to take place on the Iris Lawn at Mona Vale , persistent rain saw the event moved indoors to the historic homestead. The change of setting did little to dampen spirits, with more than 200 players, officials, supporters and invited guests

As the Over 70s World Cup approaches, the Sri Lanka squad is ready to take the field, bringing decades of cricketing experience from around the world. Many have represented Sri Lanka in previous veterans’ tournaments, while others have played club and regional cricket overseas. The team is a mix of seasoned batsmen, bowlers, and all-rounders — some still playing competitively in their 80s, others balancing cricket with careers, coaching, or other sports. Together, they bring

Tournament Information Pack Released Ahead of Over 70s World Cup . With Christchurch delivering some truly abysmal weather in the lead-up to the Over 70s Cricket World Cup, visiting teams have been quick to adapt—seeking out indoor options to ensure their final preparations stay on track. Today, the Sir Richard Hadlee Sports Centre  has been buzzing with activity, hosting a number of Over 70s teams for vital net sessions ahead of the tournament’s opening matches. The indoor f

Tournament Information Pack Released Ahead of Over 70s World Cup . With the International Masters Cricket Over 70s World Cup fast approaching, the Local Organising Committee is pleased to publish the official Tournament Information Pack , now available to accompany the final tournament communications. The Information Pack has been developed to provide teams, officials, and supporters with a clear and practical guide to the event, bringing together all essential operational an

Hagley Oval will host the 2026 Over 70's Cricket World Cup Tournament Final. Lance Ryan standing on the embankment at the Port Hills End of the Pavilion overlooking the Hagley Oval Pitch. With the IMC Over 70s Cricket World Cup set to be hosted in Christchurch, preparations at Hagley Oval are well underway — and it’s the behind-the-scenes work that often makes the biggest difference. Captured overseeing pitch preparation at the Oval, the Local Organising Committee (LOC) Chair

A message from Team Canada 'Dear IMC Family, Our incredible Over-70s Canadian National Team is heading to Christchurch, New Zealand to compete in the IMC Over-70s Cricket World Cup! 🇨🇦🏏 These remarkable senior cricketers carry with them not just their experience and skill, but the pride, passion, and spirit of our entire community. They are living proof that dedication to the game has no age limit — only heart, determination, and love for  cricket. As they step onto the wo