Just like most of his PIH Under 19 Cricket PNG teammates, this will be Malcolm’s first time leaving the shores of Papua New Guinea – a big deal for the young batter.
The teenager from Hula in the Central province, has already made his presence on the pitch known. Starting as a fun backyard game with his friends is now a lifetime opportunity where Malcolm will be representing his country, after being scouted from the well-known Raukele Cricket Club.
‘I’m excited. I feel happy because this is my first [World Cup] tour,’ he says.
There is so much to gain from a World Cup tour; from networking to experiencing different cultures. But what Malcolm anticipates most is watching and learning from the other international teams like Pakistan, Sri Lanka and New Zealand.
‘I just want to get experiences from other countries, especially from their batting and bowling techniques.’
That is something he looks at in other players he aspires to be like, especially in the Kumul Petroleum PNG Barramundis team.
‘My favourite player is Tony Ura because I love his shots, and his fielding too,’ he says without hesitation.
Being young it is only right to absorb how other players perform on field. And even on the court. Interestingly, volleyball is another game that he enjoys playing when he’s off the field. ‘I love playing volleyball,’ he says with a smile.
When asked how training is coming along, he assures that preparations are going well for him and the team, agreeing that they are ready to take on other international teams in the West Indies next year.
Malcolm admits he will definitely be missing home on this tour, especially his family. But he is looking forward to making his debut on the international stage, hopefully one day tour as one of the Barramundis.