PNG qualify for U19 World Cup

 THE PNG Garamuts (92) have qualified for the U19 World Cup in Dubai next year after beating Vanuatu (47) by 45 runs yesterday. 

A dominant bowling performance from the Hebou-sponsored side was enough to secure victoryat the John Blanck Oval in Maroochydore, Queensland.

Arriving from the bouncy wickets of Darwin, the PNG side were slow to adjust to the conditions, as Vanuatu skipper Nalin Nipiko and medium pacer Worek Tastuki continued their trend of making early breakthroughs.

PNG were reeling at 56/8, and a big upset appeared to be on the cards.

But Hiri Hiri and Kabua Vagi Morea combined for a 33-run, ninth wicket partnership to take the score to 89/8.

PNG were eventually dismissed for eight shy of a 100 leaving Vanuatu with a chase of 93 for victory. The game was in the balance with Vanuatu on 21/2 by lunch.

Vagi Morea grabbed a double after lunch snaring Joshua Rasu and Clement Tommy in one over.

Callum Blake edged one behind soon after for nought, as Sakavai Gebai’s superb line and length constantly tested the technique of Vanuatu’s batsmen.

Nipiko consolidated somewhat with Apo Stephen for a 17-run partnership.

Gebai removed Stephen and from there Vanuatu capitulated from 43/5 to be all out for 47.

Garamuts Captain Dogodo Bau was was particularly pleased with the effort in the field and with the ball.

“It’s a pleasure to win the game, we worked really hard. When we were batting we were struggling a  bit, then our bowlers did the job. I’m so proud of the boys, I almost cried,” Bau said.

Final at John Blanck Oval: PNG – 92 all out, 36.4 overs (K. Vagi Morea 16, A. Stephen 3/29, Callum Blake 2/11, W. Tastuki 2/21) Vanuatu – 47 all out, 27.4 overs (K. Vagi Morea 4/20, S. Gebai 3/8). PNG won by 45 runs.