Pirika grateful for Hunters preseason experience

By MICHAEL PHILIP
CENTRAL Dabaris speedster Douglas Pirika has thanked the PNG SP Hunters for giving him the opportunity to be part of the 2024 preseason training.
Pirika was not in the Hunters 30-man squad that coach Paul Aiton named on Saturday.
However, Pirika told The National that he had learned a lot in the tough preseason training and would continue to maintain form with local franchise Central Dabaris. “As a first timer in team, preseason training with the Hunters is very tough compared to the Digicel Cup level,” he said.
“Since preseason training started, I have been very attentive to the coaching staff and that has made it possible for me to overcome the fear of training with such a national team.
“I’m getting used to it now, it’s no longer a problem but that’s not the end. I still have room for improvement.
“Otherwise, I have enjoyed time with them and hopefully I make a good comeback next time around.”
Pirika said the experienced coaching staff in the likes of head coach Paul Aiton and Wartovo Puara Jnr and players Brendon Nima and Sakias Komati have influenced the newcomers to successfully complete block one and two of preseason training.
“We have good number of boys in the team who are well experienced playing in the Hostplus Cup and that’s a bonus to the team.
“I always received support from them on and off the field, always sought their advice and asked questions. They’ve been playing the game for quite long and its best we get assistance from them.”
The sneaky speedster said he would continue to work hard with Dabaris in the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup and make a comeback in the future to achieve his dream of playing with the PNG franchise.
The 23-year-old mixed parentage of Gulf and Central thanked Aiton for his leadership, describing him as one of the most flexible coaches.