U19s fall again

 AFTER a gallant effort against the Indians, the PNG U19s began the quad series match against New Zealand well on Tuesday in Darwin. 

They were on top early with the ball but were not able to maintain the pressure as they succumbed to the experienced Kiwis losing by 133 runs at the Gardens Oval.

PNG won the toss and elected to bowl on what appeared to be a hard wicket. The decision was vindicated in the second over with Alei Nao picking up the first wicket, Rakitha Weerasundara caught behind. The Garamuts then proceeded to run through the Kiwi top order having them reeling at 5-59. New Zealand then batted with great maturity to put on 139 for the 6th wicket enabling them to post 259/9 off their 50 overs. 

Kabua Vagi (4/44) and Nao (1/41) were the pick of the bowlers.

The batting got off to a poor start with Raho Sam getting out in the first over. 

Kiplin Doriga (29) and Dogodo Bau (15) then batted well and put on a partnership of 45 which was only ended by a great catch from the wicketkeeper Tim Seifer. 

That sparked a mini collapse but Sakavai Gebai (25) and the lower order batted bravely before falling all out 126.

Today the Garamuts take on the No.2 ranked Australians. 

Garamuts coach, John Ovia said: “We need to improve our batting and will be looking to concentrate on building partnerships and batting the full 50 overs. The bowling seems to be on the right track so far.”

PNG play their last quad series match today then head to Maroochydoore tomorrow to prepare for the East Asia Pacific final on Monday.