Cricket PNG is excited to announce that the CPNG Selection Panel will be finalizing the Garamuts training squad tomorrow (Friday, 7th February) in preparation for the ICC Men’s U19 Cricket World Cup EAP Division 1 Qualifier, scheduled to take place from April 22 to April 30, 2025, in Japan.
The winner of this qualifier will advance to the ICC Men’s U19 Cricket World Cup, set to be played in early 2026.
The Garamuts, who earned their spot in Division 1 by remaining undefeated at the EAP Division 2 Qualifier in September 2024 in Samoa, are gearing up for another successful campaign. The team will be managed by Richard Leka, with Kila Pala, who previously coached the Garamuts in 2017, taking on the role of coach.
The training squad to be announced will include the 14 players who were successful in the Division 2 Qualifier in Samoa last year, as well as a couple of fringe players who will have a second chance to impress the selectors for the upcoming Division 1.
The most notable performer last year was Dauncy Tom, who was named both the Player of the Tournament and Batter of the Tournament. He also showcased exceptional skills and contributed significantly to the team's success.
Another notable performer at that tournament was Gaba Frank, who was scouted by David Gilbert, a former Australian cricketer, who later invited Frank to join the Western Suburbs (Sydney) Cricket Club for the 2024-2025 season. Both Dauncy and Gaba, along with Frank Naime and Vagi Morea, were named in the Division 2 Team of the Tournament.
The ICC Men’s U19 Cricket World Cup EAP Division 1 Qualifier in Japan will feature teams from the following countries:
∙ Indonesia
∙ Japan
∙ Papua New Guinea
∙ Vanuatu
We look forward to seeing the Garamuts excel in the upcoming qualifier and continue their journey towards the ICC Men’s U19 Cricket World Cup.
The Garamuts coach, Kila Pala said: “We are looking forward to the announcement of the squad. I am excited and I know the players are excited for this opportunity as well. Once the team is finalized and announced, we will begin training.
“The weather conditions in Port Moresby are quite challenging compared to Japan. The preparation itself has to be on point, and with the groundmen making sure the training ground and equipment are fit for training, we hope to build on our previous success and be well-prepared for Division 1.
“So, if we can get the small boxes ticked in preparation, then we will be ready to achieve the big goal in Japan.”
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