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"From missionary origins to global success, Papua New Guinea's cricket journey culminates in a triumphant ICC Men’s T20 World Cup EAP Qualifier, securing a spot in the 2024 tournament."
History of Papua New Guinea PNG cricket
Cricket found its way to Papua New Guinea (PNG) through missionaries affiliated with the London Missionary Society during the early 1900s. In its initial stages, cricket matches lacked strict adherence to rules, often featuring teams with over fifty players. The sport gained immense popularity among Papuan coastal villages. The very areas where the missionaries and early British explorers initially landed. The exact location of the inaugural cricket match remains a matter of speculation. With Milne Bay, Oro, and Hanuabada emerging as the three most likely areas along the shores of PNG.
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When Papua New Guinea’s join ICC
PNG attained Associate Membership status in the International Cricket Council (ICC). In 1973, paving the way for participation in the ICC Trophy in 1979. Since that inaugural tournament, PNG has actively participated in a total of 33 ICC Sanctioned/Pacific Games competitions across various formats.
George Wolstenhome held the distinction of being the first Senior PNG Men’s (The Barramundis) Captain from 1975 to 1979. While Jack Vare, the current captain, is the twelfth to lead the team, holding the position since 2015.
In the realm of women’s cricket, Kune Amini served as the pioneer Senior PNG Women’s Captain (The Lewas) from 2006 to 2009. And Norma Ovasuru, the current captain, is the fourth individual to hold the position since 2015.
Focusing on international cricket and game development. Cricket PNG (CPNG), previously known as the Papua New Guinea Cricket Board of Control, serves as the National Cricket Federation. Entrusted with the advancement, promotion, and oversight of cricket in Papua New Guinea (PNG). CPNG holds the status of an Associate Member within the International Cricket Council (ICC). Receiving support from the ICC East Asia-Pacific (EAP) regional office.
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Papua New Guinea’s
CPNG currently employs over 50 individuals spread across ten (10) regions in PNG. With a significant portion dedicated to steering entry-level participation initiatives such as the BSP Schools Kriket Programme. And the recently introduced Gold Nuggets School Kriket Trophy (School Hard-ball Competition). In 2013, the BSP School Kriket Programme, a recipient of the ICC Global Award, engaged over 171,000 students throughout PNG. Since then, more than 150,000 students have actively participated in the program, contributing to the development of national PNG players.
In 2014, CPNG introduced the Kriket Blo Olgeta (KBO) Program. An inclusive cricket initiative designed to involve individuals of all abilities, women, villagers, and those from diverse cultural and traditional backgrounds. This program strives to make the game accessible to everyone across the country.
At the pinnacle of competition, CPNG manages three (3) primary national teams. The Barramundis (Men’s), the Lewas (Women’s), and the Garamuts (Under 19). The Barramundis currently hold the 15th rank globally, achieving One Day International (ODI) status in 2014. The Lewas are positioned 13th in the world. While the Garamuts have successfully qualified for seven (7) ICC Under 19 World Cups.
Papua New Guinea Triumphs in ICC Men’s T20 World Cup EAP Qualifier, Secures Spot in 2024 Tournament
Papua New Guinea (PNG) showcased cricket prowess by clinching victory in all six matches of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup East Asia Pacific (EAP) Qualifier. This remarkable performance earned them a coveted berth in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. Slated to take place in the West Indies and the United States of America (USA). Notably, this marks PNG’s second qualification for a Men’s T20 World Cup.
Dominant Bowling Display: Vanua and Kariko Shine
Norman Vanua emerged as the standout wicket-taker, claiming an impressive four wickets for just 20 runs in his four-over spell. Complementing this effort, John Kariko added figures of 2/18, restricting Japan to a total of 106/8. This solid bowling performance came after Japan won the toss and chose to bat. With the match unfolding in front of an enthusiastic PNG crowd in Port Moresby.
Struggles for Japan as PNG’s Bowlers Maintain Pressure
Despite notable contributions with the bat from Reo Sakurano-Thomas (30), Kendel Kadowaki-Flemming (18). And Wataru Miyauchi (18), Japan faced challenges in sustaining partnerships, courtesy of PNG’s determined bowlers.
Efficient Chase Led by Ura: PNG’s Batting Brilliance
PNG efficiently chased down the target in just 11.3 overs. Propelled by opener Tony Ura’s explosive performance, scoring 47 off 19. Including seven boundaries and two sixes. Charles Amini, Lega Siaka, and captain Assad Vala also made significant contributions, securing an impressive victory.