PM salutes Barras

PRIME Minister James Marape paid a surprise visit during a South Pacific Brewery-hosted reception for the Papua New Guinea Barramundis in Port Moresby on Friday.
He congratulated the Barramundis and Cricket PNG (CPNG) for securing automatic qualification to next year’s T20 World Cup in Australia.
“I’m sorry if I come crashing your party this afternoon,” Marape said.
“But someone told me that there was a gathering to appreciate the boys’ for their success. So I’m here representing our country to acknowledge your achievement to fly our flag high. You have done a tremendous job on the field and officials done their part to put together a team to improve PNG’s ranking in international in cricket.”
Marape said in a nation that had many divides caused by politics, social structures, tribalism and ethnicity, sport was an avenue that brought people together.
“Count me as one of your ticket holders for your games next year,” Marape said. “I will come with you to give you the support.” Marape thanked SP Brewery and other sponsors who stood beside the Barramundis over the years.
Meanwhile, CPNG chief executive Greg Campbell praised Marape for visiting the Barramundis.
“There will be an invitation for you when we play our first (World Cup) game in Australia.”