PNG cruise to victory

The Papua New Guinea (PNG) Cricket Team recorded a comprehensive victory over the Queensland Academy of Sport (QAS) Regional Team on Saturday, 5th May, at Gill Park.

After losing the toss and being sent in to bat, PNG opening batsmen Arua Uda (36 runs off 72 balls) and debutant Frank Doura (6 off 14) made a steady start before the latter was beaten by QAS speedster Matthew Jensen. Uda and veteran John Ovia (62 off 95) consolidated taking the score to 73 before Uda lost concentration and spooned an easy catch to Tony Hampson at cover.

Jamie Brazier (108 retired off 73) joined Ovia at the crease and the pair wrestled the game away from the QAS with a dynamic partnership of 147. Brazier's innings evolved into an explosive display of power hitting that included eight 4's and five towering 6's.

Brazier retired with 10 overs remaining and it was left to the young PNG middle order to finish off the innings. Vice Captain Chris Amini (1 off 2) fell cheaply however Mahuru Dai (28 off 20) and Mahuta Kivung (16 off 20) pushed the total up to a competitive 8 for 275 at the completion of the 50 overs.

Early wickets were needed and the PNG opening bowlers didn't disappoint. Hitolo Areni (3 for 18 off 9 overs) struck in the 3rd over the innings and Inoa Baeau (2 for 26 off 9) followed with 2 wickets to leave the QAS reeling at 3 for 30. A change of bowlers provided little relief for the QAS with Amini (1 for 38 off 8), Brazier (2 for 30 off 8) and Kivung (1 for 15 off 6) all claiming wickets.

An unbeaten last wicket partnership of 25 only delayed the inevitable as PNG cruised to a 114 run victory in the first of the 3-match series.

Rarua Dikana (Captain)
Chris Amini
Hitolo Areni
Inoa Baueu
Jamie Brazier
Mahuru Dai
Frank Doura
Mahutu Kivung
Api Leka Jnr
Loa Nou
John Ovia
Piki Ravusiro
Arua Uda
Assad Vala
Apil Leka (Coach)
Udu Vai (Manager)