Western Australia-based players Michael Byrne and Josh Lynn launched their international careers this month, debuting for Indonesia in a landmark development for WA Cricket’s burgeoning partnership with the island nation.
MOU Milestone as WA Pair Debuts for Indonesia
WA Cricket and Persatuan Cricket Indonesia (PCI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) backed by the Australia-Indonesia Institute Grants Program, aimed at growing the game in Southeast Asia.
Born in Indonesia, Southwest local Byrne experienced his first taste of international cricket during the BBI: Rising Asia T20I Tri-Series in Bali, celebrating the hosts’ 45-run win over the Philippines on 7 July.
Having previously played for Dunsborough, Cowaramup and Regional South West representative sides, the 21-year-old pace bowler was in action again the following day as Indonesia took down South Korea by 52 runs.
Seventeen-year-old Lynn, who holds an Indonesian passport, debuted on Sunday 13 July against South Korea and made an enormous impact in the seven-wicket win, earning Player of the Match honours with 3-22.
A right-arm seamer, Lynn represents Wanneroo Districts Cricket Club, having come through the ranks with Warwick Greenwood Junior Cricket Club, and WA Associated Catholic Colleges.
The partnership between WA Cricket and the PCI, supported by the International Cricket Council, aims to fast-track the development of players, coaches, umpires and facilities in Indonesia.
Although WA Cricket and the PCI are initially focused on female cricket, the selections of Byrne and Lynn mark an early and significant achievement of the MOU, which also formalises scouting, development pathways and player exchange initiatives.
Abhiram S. Yadav, Chairman of Cricket Indonesia, said the selection of Byrne and Lynn reflected the practical benefits of the partnership with WA Cricket.
“This is precisely the spirit of our MoU with WACA — to open formal pathways for players of Indonesian heritage or eligibility who have been developed in Australia,” Mr Yadav said.
“They bring professional standards, new perspectives, and can act as mentors and teammates to help strengthen our national squad.”
Mr Yadav also extended an invitation to other eligible players in Australia.
“We want Indonesian passport holders, those born in Indonesia, or of Indonesian descent in Australia to know that the door is open,” he said.
“If they meet eligibility criteria, we want them to join us, share their skills, and help us lift Indonesia’s performance on the international stage.”
Indonesia (four wins, four losses) finished the tri-series in second place, four points behind the Philippines (six wins, two losses) and four points ahead of South Korea (two wins, six losses).
The tournament was a key pillar of Indonesia’s preparation for the South East Asia Games in December, as well as upcoming ICC Pathway events.