Captain Maha sets sights on first Cricket World Cup

NATIONAL Under-19 men’s cricket team captain Barnabas Maha says cricket is fun “because you make a lot of friends”.
“It’s nice to be around the boys and making friends,” the 19-year-old said.
What was played just for fun in the backyard growing up is now something Maha is serious about.
“It runs in the family,” the all-rounder said.
“My father and grandfather are my role models — they’re cricket players too.”
Now preparing to leave for next month’s World Cup in the West Indies, the Keapara villager is anticipating a strong debut.
“It’s not my first time travelling overseas, but my first World Cup tour,” the Central native said.
“I’m a bit nervous, but I’ll go out and do my best.
“I just want to learn a lot, learn as much as I can from the World Cup experience.”
One piece of advice he has taken to heart before he and the team depart for the West Indies is from Kumul Petroleum Papua New Guinea Barramundis captain Assad Vala.
Fellow all-rounder Vala always stressed the importance of going out onto the pitch and enjoying yourself.
And from one cricket player to another, this batter also has advice for young players who, like him, aspire to represent the country in cricket.
“My advice is simply hard work and do the small things right,” Maha said.