The under-19 cricket trial match, held by Cricket Papua New Guinea (CPNG) to identify and select players for the national U19 team, known as the Garamuts, successfully concluded on Friday, January 26th, 2024.
There were four teams - Yellow, White, Red, and Black - participating in the four-day event at Amini Park and Bisini Cricket Oval.
The top two teams, Yellow and White, met at Amini Park in the 50-overs grand final, where White defeated Yellow and emerged as champions.
The event also featured some boys from outside centers, including four from Milne Bay, five from Lae, and three from West New Britain Cricket Association.
Rodney Maha, the Talent Identification Manager, stated that the trial was important for the selection process. He further said that the teams showcased impressive performances during the trial matches.
“We have identified some best bowlers and batsmen, so we will now focus on selecting a train-on squad,” said Maha.
“We will use the collected statistics to determine who scored the most runs in batting or took the most wickets in bowling.
“Based on those statistics, the coaches will collaborate and nominate the players who will make up the 24-squad.”
Maha also said that the selection would not be solely based on the collected stats, but also on their observations during the week.
“Some boys did not score runs, but because they displayed extraordinary skills, we saw potential in them. That is something we can build on and train them. It's not only the data we have that will determine the nominations,” he said.
The selection process is currently underway, with 24 players to be selected for the train-on squad.
The selectors will continue the process to finalize the Garamuts and further their training in preparation for upcoming tournaments in the next couple of weeks.
Source and photo credit: Cricket PNG
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