PNG’s national women’s cricket team, Lewas, head off today Wednesday, 20th March to begin their Zimbabwe and United Arab Emirates (UAE) tour.
The Lewas expect to arrive in Zimbabwe on Thursday, rest, and train until their first One Day International (ODI) match with Zimbabwe on Sunday.
Brenda Tau will captain the Cricket PNG Lewas, with her vice-captain, Sibona Jimmy.
The rest of the squad includes Tanya Ruma, Lakshmi Rajadurai, Pauke Siaka, Isabel Toua, Naoani Vare, Geua Tom, Kevau Frank, Henao Thomas, Vicky Ara’a, Buruka Vicky, Dika Lohia and Melanie Ani.
Lewa’s coaching staff includes Coach David Drew, Manager Nao Kamea, Strength & Conditioning Coach Anthea Murray, and Physiotherapist, Maryanne Pahun.
Coach Drew expressed confidence in a successful outcome on this tour, saying that despite his short tenure of two months, he has already observed remarkable potential within the women’s teams.
“In January, the Lewas turned around a group stage loss to a strong NZ Maori team to dominate them in the final and win the Pacific Cup.”
“I’m proud to announce the Lewas team will continue that success on this upcoming tour.”
“There is a great team spirit, and the girls are working hard towards a successful tour which will see them play 5 ODIs against Zimbabwe, Scotland and USA, and 3 T20Is (Twenty20 Overs Internationals) against Zimbabwe.”
“It will be an exciting schedule and experience for the girls, one which we are looking forward to immensely as a group.”
The Lewas final preparation has been boosted with Julia Price, who has previously visited PNG and worked with both the Lewas and the Under19 Siales, traveling to Port Moresby to assist with the Lewas final sessions before they travel.
Price will continue to spend some valuable time with the U19 girls as they prepare for the upcoming International Cricket Council (ICC) U-19 T20 World Cup East Asia Pacific (EAP) Qualifier.
Her visit is part of the support provided to Cricket PNG by the PacificAus Sports program, which Cricket PNG CEO Richard Done described as a significant and crucial supporter of PNG’s women’s team and programs.
He also commended Julia for making time in her busy schedule to visit PNG.
“She is here today, and we thank her for joining us.”