PNG contracted squad named
PNG National Coach Andy Bichel and High Performance Manager Rarua Dikana on Tuesday confirmed that the national contracted squad of 22 players has been finalised and all contracted players have completed the contract orientation. The players in the squad are committed to a 12 month programme of five-days-a-week training, conditioning, testing, skill development and team activities.
"To perform at the highest possible level it is critical that we have a balanced squad and they undergo a strenuous preparation," said Chairman of selectors and former PNG National Captain (1994-95), Api Leka.
"From 22-29 January the team will be travelling to Hong Kong and China for Pepsi ICC World Cricket League Division 3 to play for the opportunity to improve our ranking inside the top 20 in the World. Given that there are 105 countries in the ICC, we are potentially in a very tough position, as the countries ranked 11-20 all play extremely well", said Leane.
"Success in January, means a top 2 finish against Hong Kong, USA, Denmark, Italy and Oman. Once we achieve that the team will then have to travel to the UAE (same place as Hakari), to play against Namibia, UAE, Bermuda and Uganda. Our goal will be to finish in the Top 2 again so that we have more opportunities and a World ranking inside the Top 20," stated Leane.
Next year will also see the PNG playing in the 2011 South Pacific Games in Noumea to defend its gold medal, 2011 ICC EAP Cup, quadrangular featuring Singapore, Malaysia and Hong Kong, second series against Australia Indigenous, the 2011 Arafura Games in Darwin
Chairman of selectors, Api Leka reminded all players that players outside of this squad can be added due to form or injury to any player. "The squad is a honour but commitment to continuous improvement is critical," reminded Leka.
"Currently we have 12 of these players based in Australia as part of the Brian Bell Future Stars scholarship. We also have one resident Australian player (Chris Kent). Getting into the squad continues to be a difficult task and with the growth of cricket in areas like Milne Bay, Kimbe, Kavieng, Mt Hagan, Goroka, Lae, Madang, Popondetta and of course Central province we will see less Moresby based players over the next few years unless the competition in Port Moresby can grow to new heights and player performances grow dramatically," added Leka.
2010-11 PNG squad: Rarua Dikana (captain), Chris Amini (vice-captain), Tony Ura, Hitolo Areni, Raymond Haoda, Junior Jacob Mado, Chris Kent, Vani Vagi Morea, Kila Pala, Pipi Raho, Assad Vala, Kopena Arua, Jack Vare, Inoa Baeau, Loa Nou, Joel Tom, Kapena Arua, Jason Kila, Vali Albert, Heni Siaka, Willie Gavera, Mahuru Dai