PNG Barramundis score back-to-back warm-up wins in Brisbane

Papua New Guinea’s national cricket team, the Barramundis, made a strong start to their international preparations with two victories in warm-up matches against Queensland sides over the weekend.

In a tense Twenty20 [T20] clash on Friday, PNG edged Queensland XI by two runs. Batting first, the Barramundis posted 156 for 8, with Hila Vara top-scoring on 31 and captain Assad Vala adding 25. Queensland’s chase was anchored by opener Harry Carrol, who struck 58, but PNG’s bowlers held firm in the final over to close out the game with the hosts stranded on 154 for 5.

On Sunday, the Barramundis followed up with a commanding seven-wicket win over Queensland PC XI. The home team was restricted to 111 for 9, with left-arm quick Kabua Morea taking 3 for 26 and Damien Ravu finishing with 2 for 8. PNG’s chase was clinical, reaching 113 for 4 in just 11.5 overs, powered by contributions from Boio Ray [23], Vala [23 not out] and Gaudi Toka [20 not out].

The two victories come as the Barramundis prepare for their upcoming tour of Oman, part of their build-up to the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 cycle, a competition that determines qualification for the 2027 World Cup.

Cricket has grown steadily in Papua New Guinea, where the Barramundis made history in 2021 by qualifying for their first-ever ICC T20 World Cup. Despite limited resources compared with major cricketing nations, the team has developed a reputation for resilience and flair, with players like Vala and fast bowler Norman Vanua gaining recognition on the international stage.

The wins in Brisbane signal promising depth and momentum for PNG as they aim to strengthen their standing in Associate cricket and push for more global appearances.