The cricket matches of the XXI National Sports Week (PON) 2024, held at Lapangan Kembar, Deli Serdang, North Sumatra (Sumut), from September 2 to 14, 2024, concluded successfully.

Deli Serdang – The cricket matches of the XXI National Sports Week (PON) 2024, held at Lapangan Kembar, Deli Serdang, North Sumatra (Sumut), from September 2 to 14, 2024, concluded successfully. The tournament became a showcase for Bali, North Sumatra, East Kalimantan, and DKI Jakarta, which emerged as gold medal winners, reflecting the significant growth of cricket across the country.

Bali established itself as the most dominant province in cricket, securing an impressive haul of 6 gold medals, 1 silver, and 1 bronze. This achievement cemented Bali’s position as the leading force in national cricket.

North Sumatra, as the host, also delivered a stellar performance, claiming 2 gold medals and 4 bronze medals, solidifying its status as a key player at the national level.

Similarly, DKI Jakarta displayed its enduring strength, taking home 1 gold, 3 silver, and 2 bronze medals. Meanwhile, East Kalimantan bolstered its national standing with 1 gold, 2 silver, and 1 bronze medal.

Other provinces also made their presence felt in the medal tally. West Java, despite not winning gold, collected 1 silver and 4 bronze medals, demonstrating its consistent strength in cricket. East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) followed with 1 silver and 3 bronze medals, while South Sulawesi brought home 1 silver and 1 bronze. Banten, Lampung, and Papua each earned a bronze medal, highlighting the growing reach of cricket across Indonesia.

The Chairman of the Indonesian Cricket Association (PP PCI), Abhiram Singh Yadav, who observed all the matches, emphasized the significance of this PON as part of a long-term plan to advance cricket in Indonesia.

“PON XXI/2024 Aceh-Sumut serves as a crucial foundation for the future of cricket in Indonesia. With continuous preparation, we are confident that we can compete in the SEA Games, Asian Games, and even the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics,” he stated.

Beyond being a medal competition, PON XXI also provided an essential platform for young athletes to prepare for international events.

The quality of play displayed during the tournament showcased that Indonesian cricket is entering a new era of growth. With consistent development programs and regular competitions, cricket in Indonesia is expected to continue progressing and achieving international success.

“The successes of Bali, North Sumatra, DKI Jakarta, and East Kalimantan at PON XXI are just the beginning of a bright future for Indonesian cricket,” Yadav added.

Meanwhile, the Technical Delegate (TD) of PON XXI, Albert Tangkudung, expressed hopes that the Lapangan Kembar in Lubuk Pakam, Deli Serdang, would serve as a lasting legacy of PON XXI/2024. He emphasized the importance of having permanent cricket facilities to support the sport’s development in Indonesia.

“We hope that Lapangan Kembar in Lubuk Pakam becomes a permanent cricket ground to aid the growth of cricket in North Sumatra and its surrounding areas. This aligns with our vision to ensure the long-term development of cricket in Indonesia,” said Albert.

With a permanent facility, Albert noted, North Sumatra could continue to be a hub for cricket activities in the region, nurturing more talented players to compete nationally and internationally.

The success of PON XXI underscores that Indonesian cricket is on the right path toward a bright future. The challenge ahead lies in maintaining this momentum while expanding development and competition opportunities.

“There is great hope for the next generation of athletes, who will be the spearheads of Indonesian cricket’s rise on the global stage,” Albert concluded.