CPNG launches T20 tourney

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By PATRICIA KEAMO
CRICKET Papua New Guinea (CPNG) has launched its National Twenty-20 (T20) Cup for the Independence weekend in Alotau, Milne Bay, with four associations invited to the inaugural tournament.
CPNG general manager Tony Naidu told The National that there had been no opportunity for talented regional players to compete against each other for more than eight years, so the tournament was long overdue.
“In 2022, Cricket PNG plans to change that, with the launch of a new national regional championship,” Naidu said.
“Cricket in the regions has needed a competition like this, where the best players from local competitions have an opportunity to test themselves against the best in other regions. After travelling to the regions over the last couple of months, with CPNG board member Robin Dogia and CPNG domestic cricket manager Lakani Oala, we are organising the Cricket PNG National T20 Cup.
“We are in talks with interested parties to become the naming rights sponsors and expect to announce that well before the September tournament.
“The first edition will be for male players in Alotau. The second edition, will have both male and female players, and will be hosted by Popondetta in 2023.
“In each of the regions where the tournament is hosted, this will be a major event with a large number of fans in attendance.”
The associations invited to compete in the regional championship are Lae Cricket Association, Popondetta, Alotau/Milne Bay Cricket Association and Rigo/Central Association. Each team are required to bring in addition to their coach, at least one umpire and a scorer for the tournament to continue to provide opportunities for development for the three-day tournament which will see double-headers played daily.
“Lakani will oversee the tournament as its director,” said Naidu.
“Cricket PNG will provide balls and cover other costs associated with the tournament with K5,000 prize for the winners.”