Women’s comp to start

By PATRICIA KEAMO
THE Isuzu Twenty-20 (T20) women’s competition is set for an exciting start this weekend with the inclusion of three Australian Big Bash League players joining the PNG Lewas and Siales.
Following the conclusion of the men’s competition last weekend, tournament director Lakani Oala said the women’s edition would see a lot more involvement of female coaches and umpires.
Mariners and Mudmen will open proceedings tomorrow at 10am as the women’s tourney gets into its first round that will run through to Monday. Similar to the men’s competition, the women’s teams comprise of Lewas players and 16 members of the U19 women’s squad divided into four teams.
An interesting addition is the inclusion of Ruth Johnston (Cassowaries), Rhiann Kate O’Donnell (Mariners) and Ellie Johnston (Black Bass).
The trio play for the Hobart Hurricanes, Melbourne Renegades and Brisbane Heat respectively in the BBL.
Defending champions Cassowaries will have the advantage in capitalising on Johnston who is a seasoned all-rounder, and with the likes of skipper Sibona Jimmy with Kevau Frank and Ravini Oa, they’re off to defending their title.
The tournament director said their inclusion would add a bit of international flavour to the Isuzu T20 Smash.
“As the women’s version of the competition kicks off, there will be more women involvement in this competition where four women coaches will be in charge of the teams,” Oala told The National yesterday.
“Three coaches are former Lewas in Nao Kamea, Seilosi Ambo from Popondetta, Lucy Ovia and current player and Hoods stalwart Pauke Siaka.
“To add a little more female touch, two female umpires Helen Atai and Igo Oraka will be officiating umpires during the tournament.”
Meanwhile, the weekend fixtures will see a double header tomorrow and Sunday with matches scheduled for Monday.
Fixtures – Sat, April 20: Mariners v Mudmen, Black Bass v Cassowaries, Sun, April 21: Black Bass v Mudmen, Mariners v Cassowaries.