Cricket PNG hails programme for bringing out talents

CRICKET Papua New Guinea (CPNG) has hailed its Bank South Pacific-backed school development programme for producing athletes who have gone on to represent the country.
CPNG game development and training manager Vaianna Gabba hailed the programme during the launch of the BSP Kriket Blast competition at Amini Park in Port Moresby on Tuesday.
“It’s been 12 years now and BSP has made this programme successful,” she said.
“We have Nosaina Pokana, Hiri Hiri Patana, Lega Siaka and Damien Ravu in the PNG Barramundis.
“They are products of BSP’s school cricket programme.
“PNG Lewas pair Brenda Tau and Vicky Ara were in the programme before reaching the elite level.”
Gabba thanked participating schools for taking time to be part of the initiative following the programme’s return under strict Covid-19 protocols.
Boreboa Primary School sports teacher Salome Karpai said: “The children are excited and they’re all just happy to be here to play cricket.”
Karpai, who was among other teachers in attendance, commended the programme for its positive impact on the students. “Sports programmes like this are very good for children because not only does it teach healthy living, it helps them develop a good character,” she said.
Karpai said the cricket programme helps bring out equal participation.
“And if they try hard enough, they can continue with a career in cricket,” she said.