Bay of Plenty cricket fans have a chance to get involved at the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup next year.

New Zealanders are being encouraged to get amongst the world cup action by joining the ‘CWC22 Crew' as a tournament-time volunteer.

The World Cup is scheduled to take place in March and April next year.

Six host cities across New Zealand are preparing to roll out the welcome mat to the world with a global audience of millions expected to tune in.

Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui is set to host seven tournament matches, including New Zealand's opening fixture.

Up to 750 volunteers will join the ‘CWC22 Crew' with 31 matches being played across 31 action-packed days.

As well as Tauranga, the best cricketers in the world will go head-to-head in Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin. Those interested in volunteering at matches during tournament time can now apply online.

'As players, we know the role of tournament time volunteers is extremely important,” says current White Ferns star Suzie Bates, as she welcomes the first eager volunteers on Mount Maunganui beach.

'The whole fan experience of a global event such as this one relies just as much on the manaakitanga and kind hearts of volunteers as it does on the performances seen out on the pitch.”

The CWC22 Crew will be needed in a range of roles, each requiring different skills and experience.

The tournament was initially scheduled for last year but was postponed after the impact of Covid-19. Seeing the volunteers getting prepared has the former White Ferns captain excited.

'Meeting some of the fantastic Kiwis that have already put their hand up to help deliver the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup in 2022 is very humbling.

'Seeing just how excited they are about the tournament really hits home that next year's World Cup on home soil will be a special occasion for everyone here in Aotearoa,” Bates says.

Volunteers must be 17 years or older by March 4, 2022, and must live in one of the six host cities. Successful candidates applying for volunteer positions will be interviewed in July 2021.

Find out more about how you can join the CWC22 Crew now - https://www.icc-cricket.com/womens-world-cup/volunteers.