Tau to lead women’s squad at ODI tourney

PAPUA New Guinea Lewas wicketkeeper Brenda Tau has been named captain for the women’s cricket team as they prepare to head off for their One-Day International (ODI) tour in Zimbabwe and the United Arab Emirates.
Tau told The National yesterday that she was honoured to be given the role to lead the side consisting of both senior and emerging youngsters following their recent Pacific Cup tour win in New Zealand.
“I’m blessed and honoured to be given the opportunity to captain the side. I still have a lot to learn along the way but also lucky to have the senior players like Pauke Siaka, Tanya Ruma even Sibona Jimmy who are still around,” Tau said.
“Unfortunately one other senior, Kaia Arua, could not be around but these are the women that I look up to for support in captaincy duties and hoping I can lead the younger ones especially in this ODI.”
She said it was a long while since the national women’s cricket team played an ODI, however they were looking forward to regaining an ODI status.
“We’re definitely looking forward to these ODI matches, it will be a learning process for us but a great way to get back into 50-over matches,” Tau said.
“Most of the girls who were named in the team are young players but honestly I can’t wait to see what they can do out there in the field.
“Everyone deserves an opportunity and I know these young players are prepared to show their talent and give the best they can bring to represent the country.”
Meanwhile, Tau said she was looking forward to working with new coach David Drew in this upcoming tour.
Drew joined the team prior to their participation in the Pacific Cup early January.
“Coach Drew poses a great character and a great person to work with, we’ve been learning a lot from him each day since the Pacific Cup tour in Auckland,” she said ahead of the team’s departure for Zimbabwe tomorrow.
“He’s a great coach and I am excited his part of the team, we are all looking forward to work with him in this tour.”