Sierra Leone Cricket has achieved a major milestone, ranking 17th out of 96 countries in the 2025 ICC Grant Scorecard. This marks a dramatic rise from 56th in 2019, when the country’s low ranking resulted in reduced funding from the International Cricket Council (ICC).
Cricket Sierra Leone (CSL), under the leadership of Chairman Francis Samura, dedicated three years to improving governance, expanding grassroots initiatives, and strengthening infrastructure. These efforts led to the country’s impressive jump from 56th to 36th, and now to 17th. Samura expressed pride in the accomplishment, calling the jump from 36th to 17th a huge achievement.
The ranking boost follows a successful year for CSL, with Sierra Leone winning four ICC Development Awards in 2024 for governance, gender-inclusive leagues, base expansion, and fan engagement. Additionally, three active leagues at Kingtom Police Oval and the growing FBC Cricket Project highlight the sport’s increasing popularity and infrastructure.
Samura attributed the success to the collective effort of the CSL family, sponsors, and the Government of Sierra Leone, and emphasized that this achievement will enhance Sierra Leone’s global cricket standing, attracting more international recognition and support. The future of Sierra Leone cricket looks bright with expanding opportunities for players and the community.
