United claim POM cricket T20 crown

United (158/2) won the 2017 ITI T20 Trophy following their eight-wicket win over Raukele (156) in the premier men’s division grand final at Amini Park on Saturday.
United captain Anthony Vare was the star with the bat scoring an unbeaten 63 to guide his side to victory. Sese Bau, who was also unbeaten on 43 helped his skipper steer thei side home in the 17th over.
Batting first, Raukele made a promising start through openers Arina Lahari (32) and Tony Ura (36) but the middle order failed to carry on the momentum as United’s pressure with the ball and in the field scuttled what was an enterprising start. With the middle order crumbling, captain Jason Kila’s (52) saved his side blushes as he lifted Raukele’s run rate helping to build a respectable total of 156 off 19 overs – setting a total of 157 for victory.
United’s bowlers did the damage with part timers Mahuru Dai (2-16) and Lega Siaka (2-23) while paceman Toua Nou’s two for 28 helped grind down Raukele’s resolve.
Boyed by their dominance in the field United’s formidable batting order wasted little time in chasing down their target as Raukele’s bowling and fielding failed to contain the explosive United batsmen. United’s captain Anthony Vare told The National that the win was a sign of the team’s determination and spirit.
“After beating defending champions Hoods in the playoffs, it made us more determined to win the 2017 premiership,” Vare said.
“I want to thank the players and supporters of United who came to support us today. I also want to thank Raukele for being great opponents in the final.”