More emerging cricket nations apply for ICC membership
Tony Munro - 6 March 1999

Oman, the Maldive Islands and Qatar are almost certain to apply for ICC membership at its June meeting. The Oman Cricket Association is currently in the process of obtaining membership of the Asian Cricket Council and will then seek membership of the ICC. The Maldive Islands Cricket Board's application for affiliate status is likely to be backed by Sri Lanka and seconded by Singapore. Qatar has reportedly been assured that any application will be successful.

Domestic political machinations have thrown Samoa's potential bid for affiliate status in doubt, with the main advocates' attention diverted to other areas. Samoa Cricket Association Patron, Mr Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi, has recently become the Samoan Prime Minister, while Secretary, Mr Bob Barlow, has been appointed to the role of British Consul for Samoa. Additionally, he is also secretary of the Samoa Rugby Union, as it prepares for this year's World Cup.