LONDON: British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced a 35 million pounds ($44.35 million) package on Friday that will primarily go into the construction of 16 all-weather domes in cities that will host T20 World Cup matches in 2026 and 2030.

England and Wales are set to host the 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup while England, Scotland and Ireland will host the 2030 men’s edition, with Sunak saying the domes will help participation in cricket throughout the year at the grasroots level.

The domes are being built in communities where “figures have indicated low levels of physical activity” in an attempt to inspire more children to take up what is essentially a summer sport and play it the year round.

“For young people watching their first match today, the draw of getting outside and enjoying the game is just as strong, particularly as we look forward to hosting the women’s and men’s T20 World Cups,” Sunak said in a statement.

The investment is set to be delivered over the next five years while 14 million pounds will go to three different charities - Chance to Shine, Lord’s Taverners and ACE.

Published in Dawn, April 6th, 2024