Cricket PNG has announced that the PNG Garamuts Under-19 Men’s Team will compete in the ICC Men’s U19 Cricket World Cup (50-Over) East Asia Pacific Division 1 Qualifier in Japan later this month. Cricket PNG said that it follows on from the PNG Garamuts win in the EAP Division 2 Qualifier in Samoa in 2024, where they dominated the event. The winner of the tournament qualifies for the prestigious ICC Men’s U19 Cricket World Cup. “The qualifier matches will take place in Sano, Japan from 24 to 29 April, against Japan and Fiji, who qualified by finishing 2nd and 3rd in the previous Division 1 Qualifier in Darwin in 2023." "No doubt the event will bring out the best in all teams, but the PNG Garamuts are ready to make a mark on the international stage." The upcoming East Asia Pacific (EAP) Division 1 Qualifier in Japan is a pivotal tournament, and the PNG Garamuts have prepared well, including the recent 10-day tour to Queensland, with the support of the Australian government’s PacificAus Sports program and the Queensland Cricket MOU signed with Cricket PNG earlier this year." Cricket PNG said in the lead-up to this crucial event, the Garamuts have been under the guidance of their coaching team, including new High-Performance Manager, Tim Nielsen. “Nielsen brings a wealth of experience to the team, with a proven track record in elite-level cricket coaching, being the Australian Team Coach from 2007 to 2011, and South Australia CA High Performance Manager for over 8 years." "His leadership is set to provide the team with the expertise needed for the demanding qualifying competition ahead." "He joins the Garamuts’ Coach, Kila Pala, whose extensive knowledge of this group of young players will be key in shaping the team’s performance." "In addition, the Garamuts are supported by Richard Leka as the Team Manager,” Cricket PNG said. “We are proud of the Garamuts team selected for this important competition. With the leadership of Kila Pala and the addition of Tim Nielsen to the coaching team, we are confident the Garamuts will be well-prepared to represent PNG on the world stage. We’re also pleased to have the support of Harry Bourne from Lindsay Trigar Physiotherapy in Brisbane, ensuring the players stay fit and healthy throughout the tournament,” said Michael Harrison, Chair of Cricket PNG.