Isuzu Cup will expose players to different roles, says coach

THE Isuzu National Cup will help expose players to different roles in the game, says Papua New Guinea Barramundis head coach Carl Sandri.
Sandri, who has been monitoring the tournament from abroad, said the mixing of roles allowed players to gain better experience in the 50-over format.
“I have used the Isuzu National Cup as an opportunity to expose the Barras to different playing roles particularly in the batting order,” he said. “These are roles they may not be accustomed to, so that allows valuable exposure and experience in this tournament which is great.
“The Isuzu National Cup is a wonderful opportunity to experiment and to place the upcoming players in front of selectors.
“It gives them opportunity to be mentored by the senior group and get a taste of what is required.
“We need to create more opportunities for these players and coaches as pathway events to ensure the long-term strength and depth of cricket in PNG.
“I’m looking forward to the second half of the Isuzu series, seeing more consistency develop and individuals showing what they are capable of.”
Sandri commended ladder-leading Isuzu Black while noting delays in competition (due to Covid-19), resulting in varying results for several matches.
“Black are dominating at this point,” he said. “We were hoping to see a more balanced, competitive tournament, but other factors come into play, particularly with Isuzu Yellow who have several key players injured or carrying niggles.
“This was anticipated to some degree after a long layoff, so we have management plans in place and will continue to tinker with the sides.
“The players outside of the Barras squad have had even less time on the training paddock over the past 18 months, so we have to be realistic with expectations and results.”