PNG Cricketer's Resume in Style in Australia
The Cricket PNG players resumed with their Australian clubs over the weekend in the 2nd half of their 2011/12 season, as part of the Brian Bell Future Stars Scholarships initiative.
Cricket PNG has sent 12 of their contracted players to compete in local competitions in Melbourne and Canberra.
Amongst the boys playing in the Victoria Sub-District Cricket Association, the most notable performance came from Jason Kila who made a blazing 81 for Box Hill CC. His knock was the backbone of their total of 9/209 in 45 overs which proved far too many for their highly fancied opponents Bayswater, who were bowled out 107. Lega Siaka scored 11 with the bat. Box Hill have moved to 4th on the ladder after their upset victory.
Assad Vala continued his impressive season with Broadmeadows by piling on 65 and taking his season tally to 303 runs. He was part of a 43 run opening stand with Tony Ura who made a whirlwind 24. They helped their team overhaul Williamstown's total of 162 with 2.4 overs remaining.
Kingston Saints wicket-keeper Jack Vare completed 5 dismissals in his team's 17 run win over Noble Park. Vare took 4 catches and effected a stumping in a great display behind the stumps. Two of his catches were off fast bowling Hebou Barramundi Joel Tom, who took 2 for 22 off 9 steady overs.
In the Victorian Turf Cricket Association, Charles Amini contributed 21 to Airport West's 8/257 in the opening of their 2 day match. Meanwhile in the Eastern Cricket Association, John Boge Reva had a great all round game for Donvale making 35 and taking 2/24 in their solid victory.
Young gun Chris Kent has been representing the ACT in the very tough Australian Under 19 Championships in Adelaide. Unfortunately, he has struggled to make an impression so far with a highest score of 20 in his 4 innings so far.
The Brian Bell Future Stars Scholarships gives talented PNG cricketers the chance to live and develop their cricket in a foreign city. It is now in its 3rd year has seen 39 players go through the program. Players from all national squads have been sent to live and play Cricket in Australia, New Zealand & Scotland. Updates on the boy's progress and player's statistics while they are abroad can be found at: http://www.cricketpng.com