New Era For PNG Cricket

Namibia, April 2019.

ICC World Cricket League Division Two (2) proved to be a challenging and defining moment for PNG cricket. With just one (1) win from the first four (4) games hopes of qualification for the new ICC World Cup League Two (2) and regaining ODI status seemed all but gone, however that would not be the PNG way. Rallying from 5/30 against tournament leaders Oman PNG fought back and somehow through a minor miracle of sorts achieved qualification and with it regained One-Day International (ODI) status. A win against the USA the following day saw PNG climb off the canvas and finish 3rd in a tournament that many wrote them off in. 

Great. But what does this mean for PNG cricket now? Im sure there are more then one or two of you wondering what this all means and what even is the new ICC World Cup League Two (2), well here's my best explanation in simple terms of what's in store over the next three (3) years for the PNG Barramundies. 

The flow chart above provided by the ICC simplifies things enormously and makes clear of what is a complex qualification system. Basically in easy terms now all meaningful international cricket will be based around qualification for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023. This includes all test playing nations who for the first time in history will have to qualify for the World Cup as well. 

ICC WORLD CUP SUPER LEAGUE:

Lets start at the top the newly formed ICC World Cup Super League will begin from May 2020 and run through till March 2022. This tournament will feature the worlds top cricketing teams with 13 nations (Australia, England, New Zealand, India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, West Indies, Ireland, South Africa, Zimbabwe (in doubt) and the Netherlands) playing a series of home and away matches against 8 rival nations, meaning each country will not play four (4) other teams in the tournament, each series will feature 3 matches. The Netherlands qualified as the only non ICC Full Test playing member due to winning the now scraped ICC World Cricket League Championship back in 2017. This tournament will form the first base of qualification for the world cup. Following completion the top eight (8) nations will progress through directly to the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup, the bottom five (5) nations will be entered into a secondary form off qualification through the ICC World Cup qualifier to be held in 2022. 

ICC WORLD CUP LEAGUE TWO :

This is were PNG comes into the picture. With a 3rd place victory in Namibia, PNG along with USA, Namibia and Oman earns qualification for the new ICC World Cup League Two (2) and regained ODI status as the ICC has now extended this amount to 20 nations. (PNG are currently ranked 19th). 

As you can see from the simplifying flow chart above the ICC World Cup League Two (2) will feature the top 7 associate nations (Scotland, Nepal, UAE, USA, Namibia, Oman and PNG). This tournament will follow a similar run time and format to that of the ICC World Cup Super League. Where each nation will play 36 ODIs across a three (3) year period featuring both home and away matches. The only difference will be that these matches will be played as Tri-Series. For example PNG will begin by playing Scotland and Oman in Scotland followed by a series against the USA and Namibia in the USA. In return PNG will host Nepal and the UAE next year in the next phase of the tournament. At the conclusion of this tournament the top three (3) nations will join the bottom 5 from the "Super League" at the ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifier. For the bottom four (4) teams its not dreams dashed just yet as they will moved into another secondary tournament of qualification, as they will join the Top Two (2) teams from the ICC Cricket World Cup Challenge tournament in the ICC Cricket World Cup Play - Off tournament.
ICC WORLD CUP CHALLENGE : 
Due to finishing in the bottom two (2) at the ICC World Cricket League Division Two tournament in Namibia both Hong Kong and Canada were relegated to the newly formed ICC World Cup Challenge Tournament. This tournament is the bottom tier of qualification for the world cup and will feature twelve (12) nations. Unlike the other World Cup qualifying tournaments this format will feature the twelve (12) nations split into two (2) groups of six (6). Group A - Canada, Denmark, Malaysia, Qatar, Singapore and Vanuatu. Group B - Hong Kong, Bermuda, Italy, Jersey, Kenya, Uganda.
The number of matches which will be classed as List A and not offical ODI's is unknown however the tournament will finish in 2021. The top Two (2) nations will progress to the ICC World Cup Play -Off the remaining ten (10) nations will be out of the qualification race.
ICC WORLD CUP PLAY - OFF: 
This particular tournament will take place following the conclusion of all the three levels of qualification (Super League, League Two and Challenge.) and will feature six (6) teams. As spoken about earlier the bottom four (4) nations from the ICC World Cup League Two and the top Two (2) nations from the ICC World Cup Challenge league will feature. The tournament is set to take place in 2022 and will most likely be a two week event. At the conclusion of this the top two (2) nations will progress to the ICC World Cup Qualifier were they will join the bottom five (5) from the Super League, the top three (3) from League Two to form a make or break ten (10) team tournament. For the four (4) nations that fail to finish in the top two (2) that will be the end of their ICC World Cup journey.

ICC WORLD CUP QUALIFIER: 
The final chance of qualification for the ICC World Cup 2023 will feature ten (10) nations. The bottom five (5) from the ICC World Cup Super League, the top three (3) from the ICC World Cup League Two and the top two (2) from the ICC World Cup Play-Off. This tournament is set to take place in late 2022 and will most likely be a two week event. Unfortunately the ICC continues its mind boggling decision to restrict the World Cup to just Ten (10) nations meaning that only Two (2) nations will progress to the big stage.
ICC CRICKET WORLD CUP 2023: 
A ten team event featuring the best ten (10) cricketing nations in the world. The top eight (8) from the ICC World Cup Super League and the top two (2) from the ICC World Cup Qualifier. Will battle it out for crickets finest and most cherish trophies.
FINAL WORD: 
Minus the final decision of a ten (10) nation world cup the ICC must be applauded for applying this new qualifying structure were ever nation regardless off status or ranking must qualify for the World Cup. It also gives every nation meaningful cricket whether that be Australia, PNG or Vanuatu it means that every match across a three (3) year period counts towards something. It also gives associate nations must needed cricket and exposure to bigger nations. For PNG it confirms 36 ODI's and a new level of funding and exposure attached with it.
Also a little slice of history will be heading the Barramundies way when they face Oman on Tuesday, as this is the first match in this new historic format of qualification for what will be an incredible few years of cricket.
Theres something amazing knowing that whether Australia be facing India or PNG are facing Nepal or even Vanuatu facing Denmark that these matches all carry the same weight and pressure of qualification or relegation.
I hope this helps. Go the Barramundies and God Bless. 

Fresh Start For Barramundies In Tropical Paradise

Sun, surf, pristine beaches and beautiful island resorts. No this isn't a tropical holiday this is the start of the Hebou PNG Barramundies climb back to the top of the ICC World Cricket Rankings. 2018 can be best describe as a tale of two stories. The first half of the year was tough going for those involved with cricket in Papua New Guinea. The U19 Hebou PNG Garramuts flew to New Zealand to contest in the World Cup however came away finishing in last place with zero wins to their name. However the worst was yet to come. A disastorus ICC World Cup Qualifier campaign in Zimbabwe saw the PNG Barramundies lose One-Day International Status (ODI) and bow out of the top associate nations in the cricketing world. The result meant that PNG would lose High-Performance funding and fixtures and return to the cut throat ICC World Cricket League Division 2.

But this wasn't to be the way 2018 would be remembered for those involved with cricket in Papua New Guinea. Determined not to go the way of fellow associates Kenya & Canada, CPNG and its board got to work immediately and came up with a plan to combat its previous failings. The first big step was employing former QLD Bulls fast bowler Joe Dawes as National Head Coach, although his role is much more involved then just that. Getting to work straight away the extended Barramundies squad was put through its paces in a gruelling 6 week fitness training program designed by the CPNG organisation. The PNG A program was then shut down and replaced by a new "PNG Academy" side which would tour to the remote highlands city of Lae for the first time playing a series of ground breaking matches against a combined "Lae Cricket Association" side. Also confirmed following this series was another new program with an "Emerging Barramundies" & "Emerging Lewas" squads announced. The idea behind all of this is to provided a more structured, clearer and competitive pathway for emerging players within Papua New Guinea and to provide players from outside of Port Moresby a clearer pathway.

PNG Celebrate a wicket in Zimbabwe

All the while the PNG national Womens side the Lewas headed over to the Netherlands to compete in the 2018 ICC WT20Q. A surprise to most outside of PNG the Lewas came agonisingly close of a birth in the main event falling just one game short to eventual champions Bangladesh. 2018 was beginning to turn around. This is were we pick up now just a few days out of match one for the Hebou PNG Barramundies in Fiji. Prior to this tournament the 2018 T20 Hebou Shield was played out at Amini Park in what many are calling the best Hebou Shield seen to date. Four teams all with a mixtures of experienced Barramundies players, U19 Garramunts, proven POMCA performers and players chosen from outside POM battled it out over two weeks. The prize at the end a ticket to Fiji and a "Baggy Black" for the 14 players who have proven they have what it takes to represent the great nation of Papua New Guinea.

Now lets preview the upcoming ICC EAP T20 Sub- Qualifier A tournament to be played out at Albert Park in Suva, Fiji. As a new look Hebou PNG Barramundies look to rise quickly once again.

ICC EAP T20 Sub - Qualifier A (Suva Fiji) 

The New Look Barramundies 

This upcoming T20 tournament is part of the Qualifying pathway for the 2020 T20 world cup to be held in Australia. However unlike previous years were each region would have a certain amount of members progress to the global T20 qualifiers. Each region has been broken down again into Sub-Qualifiers a very Fifa Soccer world cup way of qualification. For the EAP region there will be two Sub-Qualifiers (Pacifc and East-Asia) with the top 2 from the pacific region and the winner from East -Asia progressing to the next round. The three sides will then play a Tri-Series (believed to be held in PNG) with the winner from that series progressing to the final stage of qualification the global T20 WC qualifiers. So as you can see its quiet a progress but it docent mean more regular meaningful international cricket for member nations.

The Hebou PNG Barramundies Squad: 

1. Assad Vala (c), 2. Charles Amini (V/C) 3. Tony Ura 4. Sese Bau 5. Lega Siaka 6. Kiplin Dorigia (W/K) 7. Jason Kila 8. Norman Vanua 9. Chad Soper 10. Damien Ravu 11. John Reva 12. Nosiana Pokana 13. Steven Eno (Debut) 14. Simon Atai (Debut)

A number of changes have been made to this new look Barramundies line up following the lacklustre tour to Zimbabwe. Coach Joe Dawes has opted for a fresh new approach and looked to the future with a new 4 year WCL cycle about to begin. The obvious admissions are former captain Jack Vare and veteran Mahuru Dai who have both been moved on due to time catching up with them. Whilst Vani Vagi Morea called time on a stellar career earlier this year. The bad news story was yet to come with Alei Nao who was initially announced in the squad tearing his ACL in a pre tournament camp in Brisbane just last week. The injury means Alei will miss upto a year of cricket in what is a big blow to the Barramundies. The good news stories however are the inclusions of Nosiana Pokana who is back following a re-assesment of his action and being cleared by the ICC to resume bowling in international cricket. Whilst the two players in the frame to make their debuts come from different ends of the player pathway program. Steven Eno is a former PNG U19 Garramut (2010 U19 WC) and has been selected after years of solid performances in the Port Moresby Cricket Assoication competition at 28 Steven provides the Barramundies with some experience. Simon Atai was a late inclusion following the injury to Alei Nao, unlike Steven, Simon has been selected straight from the PNG U19 Garramuts side were he was the leading run scorer at the 2018 WC scoring 116 runs including a tournament high of 81 against Canada, a classy left handed batsman Simon is being highlighted as real player of the future for Papua New Guinea. 

Simon Atai is set to become a Barramundi 

Fixtures:
Saturday 25th August: PNG vs Samoa, PNG vs Fiji
Sunday 26th August: PNG vs Vanuatu
Tuesday 28th August: PNG vs Samoa, PNG vs Fiji 
Wedneday 29th August: PNG vs Vanuatu 

Where PNG win it: 
Class and experience. Papua New Guinea has for a long time dominated the ICC EAP region having not lost a game in ICC sanctioned tournaments in over 10 years. Not only that but compared to the other nations competing the Barramundies play more regular cricket against tougher opposition. With the class and power that PNG posses its hard to see the other nations defeating them.

Where the other nations win it: 
Just because PNG has dominated ICC EAP events in recent times doesn't mean a shock result is off the table. First thing being T20 cricket can go either way on any teams given day and with the matches being played on Synthetic artificial wickets the contest is evened up greatly. Samoa in particular posses a powerful side with the inclusions of Sean Solia (Auckland Aces) and Dom Michael (Hobart Hurricanes) could cause a headache or two. In fact Samoa has come the closest to defeating the Hebou PNG Barramundies back in the 2013 edition where they went down by only 17 runs. Vanuatu also posses a dangerous side with players like Nalin Nipiko and Patrick Matuaatava proving they can be match winners on their given days. The other nations are also more accustomed to the Synthetic pitches having played more regular cricket on them. 

Key Players:  

John Boge Reva is a go to player for PNG

For PNG there is a large number of players that can be instrumental towards winning this tournament. Captain Assad Vala and Tony Ura are devastating batsman that have had a history of dominating at ICC EAP tournaments, whilst Sese Bau and newly appointed Vice Captain CJ Amini are coming off strong performances at the 2018 Hebou Shield tournament. However the player I've gone with as a key figure during this tournament might surprise a few. For a long time John Boge Reva or JB as his teammates call him has been a under the radar performer for the PNG Barramundies. Called "Mr Pressure" by former captain Jack Vare, John has always shown his ability to perform under pressure in tight situations. Against the ACT he defended just 4 off the final over to give the Barramundies an unlikely victory and against Kenya in 2016 he took 4 wickets at the death to snatch a win from the jaws of defeat. A smart bowler with a very good yorker and deceiving pace John could just be the Barramundies match winner in Fiji.

What They Said: 
Head Coach Joe Dawes:“The team has a good mixture of youth and experience, keeping in mind who might be there 4 years from now. Our strategy for the qualifiers is very straightforward – WIN. Winning is a habit, a mentality that we have failed to cultivate in the past but are looking to change that with this tournament. We are entering a new cycle with the ICC. The last 8 year cycle has just come to an end and we are looking forward to the next 4 years, which includes the 2020 T20 Cricket World Cup in Australia. There are some changes to our team since the last time the Hebou PNG Barramundis played in Zimbabwe.”


Captain Assad Vala: We are hoping the young group of lads gain more experience on an international level and for the team to start practicing winning habits – winning is a habit and our main objective going into this tournament is to win and win well.” 

One final thing: 
The ICC recently announced that all T20 matches between ICC Intentional Members would be classed as full T20 International games. Meaning that all games during this tournament will be full T20 internationals for the Hebou PNG Barramundies. 
Goodluck to all involved I'm sure you will do us all proud. Bless. 

Rivals Return As International Cricket Makes Comeback

Familiar names, faces and colors return as PNG gear up for a busy block of international cricket, following a domestic tour of Australia which saw the Hebou PNG Barramundies take on three Australian state teams on Queensland's Sunshine Coast and compete in the 4th annual West End Rebacks League, across Adelaide and Darwin. Before starting on the approaching international summer, lets recap the Barramundies tour of QLD and take a closer look at the West End Rebacks League campaign.

Hebou Barramundies Tour Of QLD: PNG kick started their domestic tour of Australia playing three matches against Australian State sides on the beautiful Sunshine Coast. Tasmaina, Western Australia and Queensland all provided strong tests for a youthful Barramundies side missing some big names. The first match saw the Barras go down to Tasmainia by six wickets, a strong bowling performance from the Tigers had PNG in early trouble however a fighting 50 from Norman Vanua pushed the Barramundies to a defendable total. John Reva bagged three wickets but it wasn't enough as a full strength Tasmania claimed victory.
Match two saw PNG go head to head with Western Australia in a run fest, chasing 324 for victory the Barramundies fell agonizingly close, going down by just 14 runs. Vani Morea smashed 96 runs whilst the other top order players all got starts, however a late collapse saw the Warriors prevail. Norman Vanua was the standout with the ball taking 4 wickets. Queensland was the final opponent on a slow and low Sunshine Coast wicket. Australian Test batsman Joe Burns scored a classy hundred as the Bulls made 243. A top order collapse saw the Barramundies in big trouble but fighting knocks from Norman Vanua (35) and Dogodo Bau (29) plus a lower order revival saw PNG to a respectable 163. The matches provided the team much needed first class experience against quality players and will only help them in the long run.
SACA West End Rebacks League:
The 4th Annual West End Rebacks League saw the Hebou Barramundies play six 50 over matches and two 2-day matches across Darwin and Adelaide. The return of both Willie Gavera and Tony Ura gave the side a much needed boost in both experience and performance.  This proved to be the most successful SACA competition ever, the Barramundies won four matches, lost one and drew three. With so many matches its hard to pinpoint the standout performers however master blaster and skipper Assad Vala finished as one of the tournaments leading run scorers (335 runs average 55) including one century, whilst fast bowler Willie Gavera took 15 wickets at an average of 12 including a best of 4/34 against the Northern Territory. What was the most encouraging sign however was the depth shown by PNG players. All batsman scored runs at some point throughout the campaign with Sese Bau scoring a spectacular century against the NT. Vani Morea, Tony Ura and Lega Siaka where all consistent performers as well. The SACA campaign always provides quality competition and this time has provided perfect preparation for the upcoming home series against Namibia.

Hebou PNG Barramundies International Series v Namibia Preview: 
4 - Day ICC Intercontinental Cup match: Sunday 16th October - Wednesday 19th October
ICC WCL 50 over Championship Matches: Friday 21st October & Sunday 23rd October
Preview:
Head to Head (Since 2011) - 50 overs (PNG 1, Namibia 1) T20 (PNG 1, Namibia 1)
Squads: Hebou PNG Barramundies - Assad Vala (c), Tony Ura, Vani Vagi Morea, Mahuru Dai, Sese Bau, Dogodo Bau (w/k), Lega Siaka, John Reva, Norman Vanua, Chad Soper, Willie Gavera, Nosiana Pokana, Hiri Hiri, Alei Nao.
Namibia: Unavailable
Key Points:  Namibia make the trip from Southern Africa to Port Moresby to take on the PNG Barramundies in what shapes to be a very intriguing series. Both sides are very evenly matched and widely considered the two most physical sides in associate cricket. The Namibians blessed with raw strength and power, whilst the Papuans possess speed and natural flair. A three match series sees Amini Park play host to its first ever 4-Day ICC sanctioned match, which is sure to bring delight to the PNG public.  The series has added context particularly in the 50 over matches wins to either side will rocket them up the ladder in a critical competition.
In The Spotlight (Key Players): For Namibia a lot will rest on opener Stephan Baard. A quality right handed batsman who has represented Boland in the South African domestic competition. Baard single handily dismantled the PNG attack in there most recent match up last year in the T20WCQ. That very tournament he was the leading run scorer, scoring 309 runs. For PNG I've gone with crafty left hander Sese Bau. Sese has for a long time been a player of huge potential and its starting to come full circle. A brilliant hundred against the Northern Territory last week has shown what hes capable of.
Namibia's Strengths and Weaknesses: Namibia's big strength is there experience in the longer format of the game having competed in the South African provincial 3-day competition for nearly 10 seasons now. Aside from that the big match winners for them lies in the batting. Stepehen Baard, Criag Williams and Gary Synman are all very experienced talented players. If Namibia get going they can take the match away in a session. The weakness however is their bowling line up. Namibia arent blessed with any out and out quick's, meaning they rely heavily on crafty medium paces and part time spinners.
Papua New Guinea's Strengths and Weaknesses: PNG's biggest strength also happens to be their biggest weakness. The Barramundies poses a strong batting line up that on their day can take it to any attack, however sometimes it proves to be one out all out. However when on song its very hard to stop. Assad Vala, Sese Bau and Lega Siaka have all proven to be century makers, whilst Tony Ura, Vani Morea and master blaster Mahuru Dai can all score runs quickly and clear the boundary with ease.
The Way I See It (Prediction): I refuse to make a prediction for the 4 - Day match as I just don't know enough about either side in the longer format of the game with both sides so evenly matched its to hard to call. However as for the 50 over matches home advantage should prove to be the difference. The beauty of having ball in hand on a home pitch will prove priceless for the PNG Barramundies, the return of fast bowler Willie Gavera has given the Barra's an attack to be feared. Namibia cannot be written off either but they just don't poses the bowling attack PNG have, with the Barramundi batsman in such good form its hard to see this series going any other way.

Sese Bau is in great form 

Coming next the big one PNG v Hong Kong ODI series Preview, Bless.

The dangerous Stepehen Baard

Barramundies Stacked Summer

Its been a while between drinks for the cricketing public in Papua New Guinea, but a wait well worth it. A stacked summer of matches, competitions and training sees the Hebou PNG Barramundies board, players and staff enter the professional phase of their careers. One thing is evident that cricket in Papua New Guinea has gone to another level. Players are now on professional contacts and train full time throughout the week, there are more coaches involved then ever with specific roles and structures in place, facilities have increased to international standard which saw Port Moresby host its first international matches in June and media coverage has been bigger then ever.

The upcoming summer is without a doubt the busiest and perhaps most important and professional then ever. Running from late August right through till perhaps early June next year.  Lets take a look at the confirmed upcoming fixtures and discuss each series.
Firstly this is the squad that has been announced for the upcoming tour of Qld and the West End Rebacks League, discussing the changes that have happened.
Squad: 1. Assad Vala (Captain) 2. Mahuru Dai 3. Lega Siaka 4. Vani Vagi Morea 5. Kiplin Doriga 6. Hiri Hiri 7. Dogodo Bau (Wicketkeeper) 8. John Boge Reva 9. Chad Soper 10. Jason Kila 11. Norman Vanua 12. Nosiana Pokana 13. Alei Nao 14. Sese Bau
(*Note this squad is subject to change for WCLC Championship, Intercontinental Cup and ODI matches)
There is a few changes to the squad that took on Kenya earlier this year. The most notable and obvious one is the loss of captain and wicket keeper Jack Vare who ruptured his ACL shortly after the Kenya series. ACL rehabs take close to a year to fully recover from so this is a big blow to the Barramundies however youngster and former U19 Garramuts captain Dogodo Bau comes into the side. Nicknamed 'Sosty' he actully spent last year living with me and playing for my club Sandgate-Redcliffe in the Queensland Premier Grade Competition where he played both 1st and 2nd grade and finished the season with most dismissals for a wicket keeper. A quality batsman as well he is a more then capable replacement for Jack. Kiplin Doriga also comes into the squad due to Tony Ura having visa issues. Tony was set to make a comeback following a year off due to a shoulder injury. Kiplin is a top order batsman and has spent time playing in the Victoria Premier Grade Competition last season again very young only 20 years old. The other notable loss in that of Charles Amini Jnr who has a severe ankle sprain meaning hell miss the initial tour but hopefully be right for the home series against Namibia. The squad also sees Jason Kila return after a few years out of the national setup. So a youthful Barramundies squad missing some big names but still a good sign for the future with these youngsters pushing through.

New Barramundi Dogodo Bau

Kiplin Dorigia is set to become a Barramundi

Confirmed Upcoming Fixtures:
Hebou PNG Barramundies Tour of QLD:
August 31st : PNG v Tasmania , September 2nd: PNG v Western Australia, September 5th: PNG v Queensland. 
The first of many matches kicks of in Qld on the beautiful sunshine coast. where Cricket Australia announced recently that PNG will play three of the Australian state teams in 50 over matches. Each state has announced their respective squads and whilst they might be missing some of their bigger names to representative honors (Australia, Australia A and NPS) this will still provide a big opportunity for the Barramundies players to prove to Cricket Australia that they have what it takes to play in Australian domestic competitions and at the highest level. Wins against these state sides could well open the door for not only PNG players but also a PNG team in some form of Australian domestic competition.

West End Rebacks League:
September 17th: PNG v Southern Force (50 overs), September 18th: PNG v Nothern Mavericks (50 overs) , September 24th: PNG v Eastern Edge (50 overs), September 25th: PNG v Western Grit (50 overs), October 2nd: PNG v Eastern Edge (50 overs), October 3rd: PNG v Northern Territory (50 overs), 5th October and 6th October: PNG v Northern Terriorty (2 Day Match), October 8th and October 9th: PNG v Western Grit (2 Day match)
Digicel PNG Barramundies will again compete in the West End Rebacks League which is been renamed from the original SACA Premier League. The Competition will again kick off in Darwin which sees PNG play four 50 over matches against each of the South Australian representative sides. These sides boast a number of big names with Australian internationals Travis Head and Adam Zampa just to name a few and will again provide quality cricket on world class facilities. From there the boys will travel down to Adelaide to continue the competition but this time in the longer form of the game. Following a further two 50 over matches PNG will play two 2 day matches against the Northern Territory and Western Grit. This is the Digicel Barramundies fourth year in the South Australian run competition and will provide ideal preparation for the home series against Namibia.
Namibia Tour of Papua New Guinea:  
October 17th-October 20th: PNG v Namibia (4-day match), October 22nd: PNG v Namibia (50 overs), October 24: PNG v Namibia (50 overs). 
Amini Park will again see its slice of exciting cricketing action when Namibia tour PNG later in October. The tour will see Amini Park host its first four day match in the ICC intercontinental cup competition and whilst this is an important match for the Barramundies one eye will remain firmly on the two 50 over fixtures to follow. This is a huge series in terms of status in the WCLC championship competition. A clean sweep of Namibia will see PNG rocket up to 2nd on the table. With some of the tougher teams to follow this series has added context. Namibia and Papua New Guinea have a similar history with the sides sharing a 2-2 win/loss rate in recent years. As described in the 2015 WT20 qualifier both sides are considered the most physical in the Associate cricking world. Namibia are big strong African boys who hit the ball hard and bowl back of a length intimidating lines, whilst the Barramundi boys are natural athletes blessed with speed, athleticism and flair that most Melanesians posses. Shapes to be a great series in front of family and friends and provide the cricketing public in Papua New Guinea the match needed matches it deserves.
Papua New Guinea Tour of Hong Kong: 
November 4th: PNG v HK (ODI match), November 6th: PNG v HK (ODI match), November 8th: PNG v HK (ODI match). 
The Barramundies will return to ICC approved international cricket when they tour Hong Kong quickly after the Namibia series wraps up at home. The Mong Kok cricket ground will host 3 ODI's in a much needed boost to PNG cricket on the international stage. This will be the Barramundies third to fifth ODI's all of which have been played against Hong Kong, with the last series being played in Townsville in November 2014, which PNG won 2-0. The conditions in Hong Kong are not alien to most of the Barramundies players having played there in 2011 during ICC WCL Division Three tournament. PNG and HK have developed a fierce rivalry on the field with a number of close matches throughout the last few years, most notable HK beating the Barramundies in Dubai 2013 to go through to the T20WC 2014. However as fierce as the rivalry is on the field the players are great friends off it and its great to see how far both nations have come together since division 3 in 2011. No doubt this is going to be an entertaining series (which will be streamed live online for PNG fans) and hopefully one that sees the Barramundies climb back up the international rankings (currently 16th) and provide the players with the much deserved international sanctioned matches they train so hard for.
Confirmed Unconfirmed Series v UAE
February - June 2017: Two x 50 over matches, One x 4-Day Match. 
As misleading as the title is this series is confirmed against the United Arab Emirates, however the specific dates are yet to be finalized. The matches will be played as part of both ICC run tournaments the ICC WCL Championship (50 overs) and the ICC Intercontinental Cup (4-day). Matches will be played in the UAE which is certinaley no stranger to PNG having played in 4 major tournaments there across the last 5 years. (2011 WCL Div 2, WT20Q 2012, WT20Q 2013 and U19 CWC 2014). Again a critical series particularly in the 50 over matches, the UAE haven't been travelling to well in this tournament but at home provide a much sterner challenge. 

PNG v Kenya Series Preview

Well we are now under 2 weeks away until history is made. Exciting times are ahead for not only PNG cricket but also for the country of Papua New Guinea in general. Amini Park in Port Moresby will host its first ICC sanctioned international event with Kenya visiting the country to play two 50 over international matches against the Barras as part of the ICC WCL Championships round 3. 

First and foremost lets take a look at the squad: 

1. Jack Vare (c, w/k)  2. Assad Vala (v/c)  3. Vani vagi Morea  4. Lega Siaka 5. Mahuru Dai  6. Charles Amini Jnr  7. Hiri Hiri  8. Norman Vanua  9. Nosiana Pokana  10. Alei Nao  11. Pipi Raho  12. Chad Soper  13. John Reva 14. Sese Bau Reserves: Vagi Boko, Jason Kila, Damien Ravu and Gaudi Toka.

There is a few changes from the squad that took on Ireland earlier this year. Firstly Tony Ura is out after having surgery on a shoulder injury, whilst Loa Nou has been overlooked for selection. The new face is Alei Nao a young right arm fast bowler ,  whilst  experienced pace man Pipi Raho returns to the side.  The first thing that jumps out in this squad is the inexperience (at international level). Youngsters Hiri Hiri, Nosiana Pokana and Chad Soper only made there debuts late last year or early this year, whilst Alei Nao is uncapped. This is however due to forced changes with Tony Ura (injury), Willie Gavera (Injury) and Kila Pala (Personal) all unavailable for selection. 

 

Probable Line up: The squad posses 5 specialist batsman, 5 fast bowlers and 4 all rounders. 

1. Vani Vagi Morea 2. Lega Siaka 3. Assad Vala 4. Sese Bau 5. Mahuru Dai  6. CJ Amini 7. Jack Vare 8. John Reva 9. Norman Vanua 10. Chad Soper 11. Nosiana Pokana 

This would mean Pipi Raho, Alei Nao and Hiri Hiri miss out

The Ground/Conditions: Little is known of Amini Park and this will certainly seem alien to the visiting Kenyans. PNG allrounder Mahuru Dai had this to say about the pitches we might see during these matches “Amini Park is best suited for spinners because it’s a bit lower and slow, so the ball tends to grip for the spinners and you can get good turn,” he said. PNG is well equipet is this is the case with Dai (off spin) Assad Vala (off spin) Hiri Hiri (off spin) and CJ Amini (leg spin) all regular spinning options. Being hosts also gives the PNG boys a big advantage, week in week out matches on the Amini Park surface will equip the locals with much needed knowledge.

Where PNG win it: First and foremost knowledge of the conditions that Amini Park equipts. Home ground advantage especially in cricket is critical, also with this being the the first international match in front of family and friends will surely give the players that extra drive to go one better. In cricket terms PNG's biggest advantage is the amount of all rounders in the starting 11. Assad Vala, Mahuru Dai, Sese Bau, CJ Amini and John Reva can all do the job effectively with both bat all ball, this gives PNG plenty of bowling options plus batting deep. 

Where PNG lose it: Its no secret that PNG has struggled with the bat over the past 12 months or so. With the exception of Assad Vala and Mahuru Dai the middle order has particularity struggled. This is something the Kenyans will target the barras middle order will have to stand up.

The X Factor: PNG has a number of potential X-Factors within the squad. Weather that be the destructive batting of Lega Siaka, the calm presence of Assad Vala or the crafty abilities of Mahuru Dai. PNG has a number of players that can turn a match on its head. If gone with two not one players who potential could be the difference. The first is Norman Vanua. Norman has been the standout bowler for the Barramundies over the last year or so,constant wickets up front and quality at the death he has really lead the attack, also PNG's fastest bowler. As we've also seen his more then handy with the bat down the order to. The 2nd player is big Nosiana Pokana. "Nos" made his debut early this year against Ireland and didn't disappoint in the matches he played. As something difference being a tall left armer iv'e gone with him as the second X-Factor if he and Norman can start the Barras off well it will go a long way to PNG winning.

The Final Word: I find it hard to see PNG losing either of these matches on home soil, with Kenya having never experienced PNG before it will certainly seem alien to them. Kenya do posses a strong squad that has experience at the highest level in the WC, they can not be underestimated. But with this being the first "international" matches at Amini Park in front of family and friends, with solid training and preparation i only see this going the way of the Barras. Good luck boys. 

PNG cricket, Year in Review 2015

As another year comes ever closer to finishing its time to look back at how PNG cricket fared in 2015. A whirlwind year that flew by and defiantly had its ups and downs. First and foremost a massive congratulations must go out to everyone involved in cricket PNG for another smooth and wonderful year for cricket in Papua New Guinea. To the administration, the coaches, volunteers and most importantly thank you for all your hard work!

Were do we start with so much happening this past year its hard to find a particular start point to kick off this year in review.  The year has been somewhat of a disappointing on with a number of setbacks compared to previous seasons, however it was not all doom and gloom with a number of spectacular achievements as well.  I spouse it is probably best to get the setbacks out of the way first and foremost to finish on a high. The U19 Garramuts had a year to forget firstly losing to Fiji in the EAP qualifier which meant loss of automatic qualification. However there was still a chance of making it to the WC through the WCQ recharge tournament in Malaysia. The u19s though were totally outplayed and finished dead bottom of the tournament coping some brutal losses, this is a worrying sign for PNG cricket as the U19s of the past have been generally strong and will be the future of the national side. Im sure preparation and changes have been put in place to insure this does not happen in the future.

The Lewas (Womens national team) had a better year then most would have expected. A silver medal at the 2015 Pacific games came as a shock to most as the Lewas had been the dominate side throughout the tournament but a heartbreaking loss in the final to Samoa put all this to bed. However the lewas still had the T20 WCQ in Thailand to look forward to. The lewas finished 5th in this tournament but won the plate final insuring some silverware for the ladies. A famous victory of the Netherlands will long be remembered by those involved in the side. To top the year of the Lewas captain Norma Ovasuru was sign to the Brisbane Heat for the very first Rebel womens big bash league. With more and more girls playing cricket in 2015 and the lewas doing so well hopefully we will see a stronger Lewas side for 2016, where they have a WCQ.

The PNG "A" side (the Aces) had their first year of competitive competition. A series against the Australian u19 side in Brisbane saw the side claim a spectacular victory in the first T20 match. But the big series was yet to come the 2015 Pacific Games. PNG had always claimed gold at the games but with the Barramundis in Ireland this made this years tougher then ever. Strong victories over Tonga and New Colidonia made for good viewing, however Vanuatu where to strong and eventually the boys claimed silver. The A team is a fantastic indicative and will only prepare these boys for when they have to step up into the Barramundis.  

Before I get into the Barramundies a point should be made. Amini park also received a face lift this year with the government funding a revamped ground for the Pacific Games. It has now been 2 years since the Barras claimed ODI status. But what do they have to show for it 2 lonesome ODIs against Hong Kong and a handful of T20I's which were due to the Icc WT20Q in Ireland. I feel there is more that needs to be done here. ODI status does not last forever in fact this time next year PNG will only have it for another further year. Of course the administration is working tirelessly to get Amini Park upto ODI standard but ive heard this wont be at least until August 2016.  However for now Tony Ireland Stadium in Townsville is providing the goods.

Now onto the Barramundies. It was defiantly a year of ups and downs for the boys. Well start with the T20Q in Ireland. PNG failed to qualify for the WC following 4 straight wins including a famous victory over Ireland, PNG then lost to the lesser likes of Namibia and the USA before a final winner takes all showdown against Afghanistan a difficult 6 wicket loss ended the hopes of the side and with the World T20 now moving to every 4 years it will be a long time before the Barramundis get there chance again. It was not all doom and gloom for the year however, we saw the Barras claim a famous outright victory against the Netherlands in their first 4 day match of the ICC Intercontinental Cup followed by a first innings win against Afghanistan. A 2-0 series victory over Nepal in the ICC WCL Championship insured the Barras received much needed points to take them to 5th on the ladder, following a 0-2 loss to the Netherlands earlier in the year. A strong SACA Premier League campaign was also the highlight of the year with PNG finishing 3rd overall in a tournament the featured only 2 day and 1 day cricket. Youngster Hiri Hiri and Australian based Chad Soper made there debuts for Papua New Guinea the latter proving to be ever reliable with the ball.

Over all it has defiantly been a busy year for PNG cricket and 2016 is proving to be the same. 9 PNG players will represent EAP at the ACCC starting next week. The Barramundis will face Ireland in a sterling test in townsville before meeting Kenya and Namibia later next year. The ladies have a WCQ to attend and there is always something happening on the domestic front. Notable mentions must go to Mahuru Dai, Assad Vala and Norman Vanua who were without a doubt the clear standouts for PNG this year.

Its been another privilege to follow you men and women on whats been another spectacular year and heres to many more. Thank you

PNG vs Afghanistan (winner takes all)

Well what can I say, another qualifier, another must win match!

PNG vs Afghanistan tomorrow in Ireland is that such situation! The Barras come into the match on the back off 2 straight losses however its no all doom and gloom, a win against Afghanistan will see the boys on the plane to India for the 2016 T20 WC.

Firstly lets not forget the heartache of the 2013 WCQ when the Barras fell agonizingly short against Hong Kong, the tears would flow the nation in mourning however the boys would go away work harder and achieve bigger and better things! All that hard work has been leading to this, to tomorrows game. All those hard training sessions, all that time away from family, all those balls hit and bowled. All off it leads to tomorrow!

2013 was when the Barras last played Afghanistan in the 2013 WCQ, going down to them on the very last ball off the game. A match many believe PNG would have won if the rain had not affected it.

This is not the same PNG side from 2013 though, this is a more professional, more clinical, more mentally and physically stronger PNG. This side will make the world cup.

Preview:

The favorites: Afghanistan come into the match as favorites, however this will be great for the barras as they are ore hungrier for the world cup! Afghanistan should and were expected to just top the group and qualify automatically. However poor losses to Oman and yesterday to Hong Kong means they will be down and out. Its all there for the taken the Barras can strike.

Key Points: Afghanistan have a strong bowling attack however they can leak runs, this will play right into the barras hands PNG love the ball flying onto the bat and then back over the fence. Afghanistan spinners are poor meaning the middle over PNG just need to tick the strike over this is were I think Vani Morea will be handy!

Afghanistan likewise though are boom or bust with the bat! its all or nothing for them! PNG need wickets and need to keep striking, the afghan boys will not hold back however I think an effective format would be to take the pace off the ball the spinners Mahuru Dai, Assad Vala and Charles Amini need to bowl alot of overs at the Afghans. A medium pacer like Chad Soper who was impressive against USA will be handy in the middle overs!

The fielding Afghanistan are notoriously slow fielders, PNG can turn 1s into 2s. and dots into 1s. If they push hard enough. This could make the different between a 130 score to a 160+/

Its no secret PNG dont chase well, we should look to bat first put a big total on the board and seriously bat Afghanistan out of the game! Lega is due for runs whilst Tony, Assad and Kila have all shown signs of form.

Prediction: Without a doubt in my mind the Barras are going to take this. Afghanistan are down and out and have been poor in Ireland. PNG are hungry for this they are going to take this I can tell! The underdogs! This is not the Barras of the Past they will take it!
PNG by 35 runs or 8 wickets!

Final Note: Everyone should be so proud of the Barras achievements this tournament! There without a doubt the most enjoyable side to watch in the world, so much exictment and flair. Good luck boys and I already know im going to see you guys in India!