Arua thankful for chance in Global side

By MARTHA DERUAGE
PNG Lewas player Kaia Arua says making the ICC Women’s Global Development Squad is her greatest achievement so far.
“I am very pleased to have the opportunity to play with some of the world’s best players against some of the top teams,” Arua said.
Arua and Ravini Oa were selected from Lewas while three players are from Bangladesh, two from Ireland, Netherlands, Uganda and one from Scotland.
The Women’s Global Development squad will play five matches against England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) Super League teams from July 15-21, after the conclusion of the qualifier (July 7-14).
“This is the greatest achievement in my career after being with the Lewas for eight years,”Arua said.
The 26-year-old from Hanuabada is an all-rounder who had made the team in 2011.
Arua, a left-arm wrist spinner, is a mother of two and has managed to stay committed to her passion for cricket as well as her family responsibilities.
“I am grateful to my parents and family for supporting me because without them I couldn’t have come this far.”
The development team is an initiative of ICC in partnership with ECB with aims to provide exposure to teams outside the top-eight ranked sides in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier.
Fixtures: Tues, July 17 – GD XI v Surrey Stars (2 games); GD XI v Surrey Stars; Thurs, July 19 – GD XI v Loughborough Lightning (2 games); Fri, July 20 – GD XI v Western Storm.
GD Squad: Jahanara Alam, Khadiza-Tul Kubra, Rumana Ahmed (Bangladesh); Gaby Lewis, Lucy O’Reilly (Ireland); Sterre Kalis, Heather Siegers (Netherlands); Kaia Arua, Ravini Oa (PNG); Gertrude Candiru, Immaculate Nakisuyi (Uganda); Sarah Bryce (Scotland); Esha Oza (UAE).