Congratulations are in order for the National Cricket Team, PNG Barramundis who have been crowned as the cricket champions of the East Asia-Pacific Region.
Their rise to the championship has helped them secure a spot in the Twenty-20 Cricket World Cup tournament.
Prime Minister, James Marape has extended his heartfelt congratulations to the men’s cricket team on their recent qualification.
The world championship is expected to be co-hosted by the West Indies and the United States.
As the Barramundis departed for the World Cup this week, Prime Minister Marape expressed his best wishes to the team’s management, coaching staff, officials, and players.
“You are not only participants in a World Cup event; you are representatives of our great nation of Papua New Guinea. This significant achievement fills my government and the people of PNG with immense pride,” said Prime Minister Marape in a media statement today.
The Prime Minister praised the team for their passion and dedication to cricket. “As you don the PNG colours and face your opponents, know that your country supports you wholeheartedly. You are the best of the best, and I have every confidence in your abilities and sportsmanship,” he added.
The tournament, taking place from June 1-29, 2024, sees the Barramundis entering as champions from the East Asia-Pacific Region, following a robust qualifying round under the International Cricket Council system.
The team left PNG on Monday and will engage in several warm-up matches before the official tournament begins. Prime Minister Marape concluded his remarks with a rallying call to the players: “Aim high and give your absolute best. You have been selected to represent our country because you are deserving of this honour. Remember, every victory you claim on the field is a victory for all of Papua New Guinea.”