Marape backs Barras

By ROBINSON LEKA
THE Papua New Guinea Barramundis yesterday received a funding of K150,000 from the national government following the team’s official launch of their uniforms for the upcoming Twenty20 World Cup in October.
The money was presented through the National and Gaming Control Board (NGCB) to the team at the Parliament House yesterday by Prime Minister James Marape who commended the team on their qualification into the World Cup.
“This is a achievement that is far greater than most sports to be in the top 16 ranking in the world and participate in a world cup,” he said.
“Congratulations of the highest order to everyone in the sport and for getting our Barramundis out to represent us.
“You’re not doing this for money but for the love of the game and for the love of your country in the sporting arena,” he said.
Meanwhile, Cricket PNG deputy board chairman Rio Fiocco said the Barras were among a handful of cricketing nations to qualify for the world cup, marking a milestone for sports in general for the country.
“There are around 100 countries in the world that play cricket so for us to be ranked inside the top 16 is a massive achievement and I urge everyone in Papua New Guinea to back the Barras,” he said.
“We’re confident that they will do their best and make PNG very proud.
“Our ladies are also ranked in the top 16 and we look forward to them making the next world cup.”
Barras captain Assad Vala assured PM Marape and the country they would be the best ambassadors of PNG and the game.
“The boys have worked really hard and we intend to go down there and do our best,” he said.
“We’re really proud to be given the opportunity to represent the country, not only in the way we play but also how we treat others as ambassadors of this country.”