Barramundis name 14-man squad for Jersey tour

Cricket Papua New Guinea has announced a 14-man squad for the Barramundis’ upcoming international tour to Jersey for the World Cricket League [50 overs], scheduled from August 12 to September 3.

The announcement was made yesterday at Amini Park by Cricket PNG board chairman Michael Harrison, joined by selection chairman Hudson Leka, deputy chairman Rurua Dikana, and assistant national coach John Ovia.

Captain Assadollah Vala will lead the squad with Sese Bau named as vice-captain.

The touring team includes Kipling Doriga, Hila George Vaieke Vare, Patrick Nou, Kabua Vagi Morea, Alei Nao, John Lohia Mea Kariko, Michael Charlie, Damien Ravu, Vagi Guba, Boio Ray, Jason Kila, and Peter Karoho.

The coaching and management team comprises Head Coach John Ovia, Assistant Coach Kila Pala, High Performance Coach Alex Stewart, and Team Manager/Physio Matteo Amabile.

Harrison congratulated the selected players, describing the team as “a blend of experience and emerging talent” and expressed confidence that they would make the nation proud on the international stage.

Coach Ovia highlighted the team’s preparation, saying, “We’ve put in a lot of hard work leading up to this tour. This will be a good test of our skills and team spirit, and I believe this group has what it takes to deliver strong performances.”

Selection Chairman Leka said the squad was chosen based on performance, fitness, and team balance, adding, “These players have earned their spots, and I’m confident they’ll represent PNG with pride.”

The team departs for Jersey on Monday, August 11, and will travel to Guernsey for warm-up matches before the tournament begins on August 20.