Cricket PNG hoping for overseas games

Sports

By ROBINSON LEKA
CRICKET Papua New Guinea (CPNG) remains hopeful of arranging for local cricketers to play in Australian competitions this year.
CPNG general manager Lee McDowell told The National yesterday that limited international cricket this year had forced most national players into local competitions and tournaments.
“The plan for our national players is to get as many as possible into the Australian competitions,” he said.
“Otherwise, they will be competing with their clubs in a shortened Port Moresby Cricket Association season.
“Coach Joe Dawes is working on securing these positions.
“As long as we have adequate funding, this will be the best preparation in terms of competitive cricket for our national players.”
McDowell said the easing of travel restrictions in PNG and other countries amid the Covid-19 pandemic would help with preparations for the national teams.
“The national government has opened its borders but it is reliant on other countries doing the same so visiting teams may still be some way off,” he said.
“Quarantine processes also add to the expenses of any tour budget.
“Next year will be busy for the PNG Barramundis (men) with two home tri-series in the Cricket World Cup League in April and May as well as other preparatory T20 cricket prior to the October World Cup.”
Meanwhile, Dawes has resumed high performance training with national teams in Port Moresby.