Simon Sia Super 9s set

By ZACHERY PER
THE Simon Sia Super Nines kicks off at the National Sports Institute in Goroka today with the aim of unearthing talent for the Bintangor Lahanis’ train-on squad for next year’s Digicel Cup.
Tournament director Benji Filele said 32 teams from all over Eastern Highlands would take part, with K15,000 in prizes up for grabs.
Filele said teams placed in pools A, B, C and D would play their matches today while those in D, E, F, G and H would do so tomorrow.
He said the top 16 teams would advance to the knockout stage on Saturday.
Filele said the winners of the knockout stage would advance to the finals on Sunday.
“The Simon Sia Super 9s is aimed at giving a fair chance to the talent in the eight districts of Eastern Highlands to showcase their skills and push for selection in the Lahanis squad,” he said.
“I call on teams to field rookie players, as we are not too keen on recycled talent,” Filele said. Meanwhile, Bintangor Lahanis franchise owner Simon Sia says he will continue to sponsor the team next year.
Sia reaffirmed his commitment yesterday when he announced the 32-team tournament.
“The Simon Sia (Super) Nines is a great opportunity for local boys in the eight districts of Eastern Highlands to showcase their talent so they can be selected in the Lahanis development squad,” Sia said.
He said the cream of the talent would join the final Lahanis squad.
Teams: K92 Budges, K92 Crusaders, KR Yonki Waves, Henganofi Green, Hernganofi Gold, Lufa Kuimas, Ungai Side, Nowek Royals, Goroka Souths, Sk Dratans, J &F Knights, BOC Bullets, GRL Reds, EHSB, Asaro Muddys, Harlequins, CPL Norths, NHC Mamboo Ruts, Daulo Greens, EMO, Labels Tigers, Genoka Robbers, Piswara Eels, Goroka Brothers, Five Mile Spartans, Nambagu Tigers, O-Wan Titans, Mimanalo Side. EMR Limestone, Gahaku League side, Eastern Bulldogs and Comsat 13 Batas.