CPNG saddened over passing of inaugural captain Amini

CRICKET Papua New Guinea (CPNG) expressed its condolences to the family of inaugural national women’s team captain Kune Amini who passed away suddenly in Port Moresby on Wednesday.
The Amini family has represented PNG with distinction, on and off the field, playing vital roles on the field, and in leadership, with an Amini captaining a national cricket team becoming somewhat of a formality.
Kune’s father-in-law, the late Brian Amini, husband Charles Amini Sr, eldest son Chris Amini, second-born son Colin Amini and youngest child Charles Amini Jr have held leadership roles in national teams. Kune was the first captain of the Lewas from 2006 to 2009, leading them in their first international cricket match, defeating visitors Japan to qualify for the 2008 Women’s World Cup Qualifier in South Africa.
Kune was an outstanding batter and led the Lewas’ batting in most matches. One of her teammates, Lucy Ovia said: “Kune was a good friend from our indoor cricket days.
“Kune was a pioneer of our game for women.
“We played on different teams in the first outdoor competition for women.
“She played for Coasters and was an outstanding player at the crease.
“She was a good friend, sister, cricketer, teammate and a great captain who I will miss dearly.”
Locally, Kune was captain of Coasters who won several premierships in Port Moresby.
For the opposition, taking her wicket was always a prized target.
Off the field, Kune and her husband would always follow Chris, Colin, and Charles Jr, scoring, umpiring or just being present to give moral and family support.