Cricket PNG (CPNG) continues to encourage player development by offering skill upgrading and international playing chances to its athletes. Three former PNG Barramundis have recently returned to the Victorian Sub-District Cricket competition in Australia for the second half of the season, confirming CPNG's dedication to exposing its players to competitive cricket overseas. Endeavour Hills won day one of their two-day encounter against Donvale last weekend, scoring 141 runs and holding their opponents to 7 wickets for 70 runs. Three seasoned Barramundis competed: Kabua Morea, a left-arm bowler for Donvale, and his former national teammates, Sese Bau (left-hand opening batsman) and Assadollah Vala (former Barramundi captain), both of whom play for Endeavour Hills. Morea took four wickets, contributing to his team’s victory—including the scalps of his fellow PNG teammates, Bau and Vala. The match continues this Saturday. Cricket PNG has a long history of sending players overseas to gain international experience. Bill Leane, former CEO of Cricket PNG, who now serves as the Chair of Endeavour Hills Cricket Club, and who has played a crucial role in facilitating overseas opportunities confirmed this. “Cricket PNG started sending players to Australia, New Zealand, and even Scotland in 2009 under what was the Brian Bell Scholarship program.” In various years, CPNG has funded up to 15 players on scholarships, allowing them to compete at the premier level for up to five months. “This has increased their experience, skills, and even coaching abilities, which they bring back to PNG to support junior development.” Endeavour Hills, a premier club in Melbourne, has hosted three PNG players this summer and worked with Donvale to ensure another three players could participate. “Having the players here exposes them to high-level weekly competition and significantly aids their skill development.” “Additionally, the players are actively coaching in our academy and junior programs two to three nights a week, as well as working with our development team on Sundays.” “This not only enhances the skills of our local players but also gives PNG players a huge boost in their ability to teach the next generation.” Leane also highlighted the broader impact of these overseas stints. “Beyond cricketing skills, the cultural experience of being in a large club environment is invaluable.” “We are working with other clubs to expand this initiative, aiming to have at least 12 Cricket PNG players based in Melbourne next summer.” “Hopefully, a local PNG corporate can sponsor the player development program next year, as this is an invaluable way to provide players with international opportunities.” Cricket PNG CEO Richard Done stressed the significance of these international partnerships in developing PNG’s cricket players. “We are extremely grateful to the Endeavour Hills and Donvale cricket clubs for supporting this opportunity through their partnership with Cricket PNG.” “It’s an exciting initiative with these Melbourne clubs, and we are thankful for their support.” “Providing our players with overseas opportunities is a key part of their development. The Melbourne competition is playing a huge role in sharpening their skills and preparing them for higher-level cricket in the Asia-Pacific region.” “We hope our player are able to repay their generosity with strong performances over the next two months,” he said. This initiative is only one example of Cricket PNG providing opportunities for its players to get international exposure and improve their talents. Partnering with Australian clubs and expanding exposure continues to allow CPNG to showcase PNG cricket potential while also reinforcing its commitment to the Barramundis' long-term success.