Women’s under-19 team depart for Australia

THE Under-19 national women’s cricket squad departed yesterday for an eight-day camp in Darwin, Australia, before next month’s World Cup East Asia-Pacific qualifiers in Bali, Indonesia.
Head coach Kath Hempenstall told The National that the camp and competition in Darwin would provide an opportunity to the 14-member Papua New Guinea Siales for some game time.
“This is their first international tour together and I am excited to see what they can do, especially having just finished from the Isuzu domestic tournaments,” she said.
“The players have had a chance to gel together in a training environment, but it would be fantastic for them to play as a team.
“It will be an experience of a lifetime for most of the team especially those who’ve never been out of PNG.
“They now get to play cricket and represent PNG.
“It was really pleasing to see some wonderful performances from the girls in the competition and further their cricket development alongside the best players in the country.
“I’m looking forward to see what the players can do,” said Hempenstall.
Siales: Annagrace Vala, Dika Lohia, Mahutu Jayphert, Cathy Ute, Emelda Vaburi, Hane Lohia Tau, Margaret Wari, Shanel Ambo, Oala Boio Kavere, Erani Pokana, Melanie Nadea, Brenda Elly, Buruka Vicky, Helai Vakona.