Ghana's Cricket Pioneer: Emmanuel Asare receives ICC Long Service Award

Accra, Ghana -  October 21, 2024 - The International Cricket Council (ICC) has recognized Emmanuel Owusu-Ansah Asare, President of the Ghana Cricket Association (GCA), for his tireless efforts in promoting and developing cricket in Ghana and Africa.

At the ICC's Annual General Meeting in Colombo, Sri Lanka, Asare received the Long Service Award, a testament to his over 20 years of dedication to the sport.

ICC Associate Nations Chair and Vice Chairman of ICC Board, Imram Khwaja, presented Asare with the award, acknowledging his significant contributions to cricket's growth in Ghana.

 Asare's journey with Ghana Cricket began in 1976 as a national team player, followed by roles as a national umpire, Team Manager, Vice President, and eventually President of the GCA.

Under Asare's leadership, the GCA has achieved remarkable milestones, including hosting the Cricket World Cup Trophy Tour in Ghana for the first time in 2022. Cricket also made its debut as a sports code in the 13th African Games in March 2024, after a 59-year absence.

Furthermore, the GCA has constructed turf wickets, upgraded infrastructure, and successfully lobbied for cricket's inclusion in Ghana's education curriculum.

Asare expressed gratitude to his board members and staff, saying, ''I would not have received this recognition without the support of my board and staff of the GCA. They have really been a pillar for the successes we have chalked."

His selfless commitment to cricket has paved the way for future generations, particularly women, whom he introduced to the sport through Achimota School's Annual Inter-House Cricket Competition in 1989.

Asare's achievements demonstrate his passion for cricket and his determination to elevate the sport in Ghana and beyond.

Key Achievements:

- Long Service Award from the International Cricket Council (ICC)
- President of the Ghana Cricket Association (GCA)
- Chairperson for the Africa Cricket Association (ACA)
- Member of the Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC)
- Initiated female cricket development in Ghana through Achimota School's Annual Inter-House Cricket Competition
- Led GCA to host Cricket World Cup Trophy Tour in Ghana (2022)
- Secured cricket's inclusion in the 13th African Games (2024)
- Constructed turf wickets for use in Ghana (2023)
- Improved infrastructure for cricket development in Ghana
- Lobbied for cricket's inclusion in Ghana's education curriculum

Source: Lead News Online