Papua New Guinea cricket. (Photo Source: Twitter)
Papua New Guinea (PNG) are gearing up for the T20 World Cup in the West Indies, and Assad Vala, the skipper, is leading the charge once again. After securing their spot in the competition through the East Asia-Pacific regional final in July 2023, Vala and his team are ready to make their mark on the international stage.
Reflecting on their preparations, Vala said that the energy has been great within the team. He emphasized the improved training conditions compared to the last tournament, which was overshadowed by Covid complications. With players like CJ Amini stepping up as vice-captain, the team feel more confident and prepared this time around.
“The energy has been great within the team. For some of the boys who went to the last T20 World Cup, it’s a different feeling now with a lot of the training because the last time was during Covid, and the preparation wasn’t as good as what we’re going through now. I am looking forward to this event because I know we are going to do well,” he said as quoted by ICC.
Having gone unbeaten in the qualifying matches, PNG dominated the regional final, winning six consecutive matches on home soil. Their squad for the upcoming tournament includes familiar faces from the 2021 campaign, along with promising talents like John Kariko, the youngest player in the group.
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The coaching staff, led by Tatenda Taibu, has placed faith in the core squad that secured qualification, with former T20 World Cup player Chad Soper making a return after impressive performances in recent tours. The team boasts a diverse range of talents, with a total of eight recognized all-rounders providing depth to their lineup.
With their first match against hosts West Indies scheduled for June 2, followed by encounters against Uganda, Afghanistan, and New Zealand, PNG are poised for an exciting journey in the tournament. As Vala expressed, “I am looking forward to this event because I know we are going to do well.”
For PNG, this tournament represents more than just a chance to showcase their cricketing prowess—it’s an opportunity to inspire their nation and make history on the global stage. With their sights set high, Vala and his team are ready to take on the world.
Papua New Guinea squad:
Assadollah Vala (c), CJ Amini (vc), Alei Nao, Chad Soper, Hila Vare, Hiri Hiri, Jack Gardner, John Kariko, Kabua Vagi Morea, Kipling Doriga, Lega Siaka, Norman Vanua, Sema Kamea, Sese Bau, Tony Ura