Barras preparing for Cup

By ROBINSON LEKA
THE Papua New Guinea Barramundis have a big year ahead as they prepare for their maiden appearance at the T20 World Cup in Australia in October.
The national men’s cricket team are also preparing for their International Cricket Council World Cricket League Division Two fixtures.
Barramundis coach Joe Dawes told The National that preparations for the upcoming matches would see a big emphasis on his players’ strength and conditioning.
“With our calendar full from May till November, the boys are in a strength and conditioning phase as they continue preparations,” he said.
“We are looking to increase the strength of our players to allow them to be more powerful when they bat and bowl.”
The focus on strength and conditioning comes after regaining one-day international status last year and their qualification for the World Cup.
With the shift from the 50-over code to the shorter game (20), the Barramundis have seen more success in the limited-overs format.
However, strength and conditioning will be key factor for the Assad Vala-skippered side.
The Barramundis, who were runners-up at the World Cup qualifiers in the United Arab Emirates last year, are pooled with Ireland, Oman and Sri Lanka in Group A of the first round.
The four teams will compete in Geelong from Oct 18-22 with the opening match to be played between Sri Lanka and Ireland at Kardinia Park Stadium in Victoria.