Lae cricket association’s 50-over competition begins with exciting round one matches

The Lae Cricket Association [LCA] launched its A-Grade Men’s 50 Over Competition last weekend with a strong start, as five teams began their campaigns in what is shaping up to be a tightly contested season.

The season opener on Saturday, featured Konepoti Cricket Club [KCC] facing off against Raukele Cricket Club [RCC] at the Unitech 1 Oval. After winning the toss, Raukele elected to field, sending Konepoti in to bat first.

KCC’s innings began with fireworks from openers Alfred Amini and Tomtom Ora. Amini struck four boundaries in a brief 16-run cameo, while Ora hammered 55 off just 24 balls, including four fours and four sixes. Contributions from the middle order in Tupou Amini Jr [13], Karo Jack [27], Allan Ila [24], and Iamo Gure [27], helped KCC post a competitive total of 201. However, their innings collapsed after the halfway mark, bowled out in just 25 overs.

In response, Raukele paced their chase efficiently. Jeremiah Alova laid the foundation with 30 runs, while Velenama Tore’s composed 49 and Rupert Karavai’s patient 26 not out kept the scoreboard ticking. Veteran batter Samson Tarapia sealed the match in style with an explosive unbeaten 76 off 27 balls, guiding Raukele to a seven-wicket victory.

The following day, Sunday, ROWCC took on Hoods CC at the same venue. ROWCC, batting first after winning the toss, lost early wickets and were eventually bowled out for 158 in 32 overs. Despite a shaky start, middle-order efforts from Akila [23], Suresh Gunarathne [30], and Sudesh Waduge [32] offered some resistance.

Hoods CC chased down the target methodically. Opener Mukura Pepe anchored the innings with a solid 69 not out, supported by Veari Taviri [17] and Gabriel Kalua [14]. The side reached the target in the 32nd over, winning by four wickets.