CPNG completes vaccination

By ROBINSON LEKA
CRICKET Papua New Guinea (CPNG) last week completed its roll-out of the Covid-19 vaccinations for players and staff amid preparations for the national men’s (Barramundis) and women’s (Lewas) teams.
CPNG regional development officer Margaret Sibona told The National that the roll-out was for invitational players and the remainder of their staff who were yet to receive the jab.
“The Barras and Lewas were the first group of players to get their vaccinations and last week we had all our invited players and the rest of the CPNG staff get their doses,” she said. “As per the advice from the PNG Sports Foundation and Office of the National Pandemic Response Controller, we had to make sure that everyone was vaccinated.
“There wasn’t much hesitation among the players and staff because everyone here knows what is at stake for cricket.
“We have players who will be required to travel out soon to train and play matches abroad, so they have to be protected while they are in the country.
“They will continuously be at risk of contracting Covid-19, so getting vaccinated is the first step in keeping them safe until they are given approval to leave.”
Sibona said last week’s roll-out saw the Isuzu National Cup postponed on Friday to give time for vaccinated players to rest with round three of the tournament resuming on Saturday.
She said the first group of players vaccinated reported no side effects with all players fit and resuming training after receiving their first dose.