The Kumul Petroleum PNG Lewas, riding on the euphoria of last week’s win against Zimbabwe, received crushing news this week – with the devastating loss of team captain Kaia Arua on Thursday afternoon. Cricket fans, family and media were stunned to hear the sad announcement Thursday afternoon from Cricket PNG CEO Richard Done. In his brief statement, Mr Done said: “I'm very sad to announce to you that our current player and most recent Lewas captain, Kaia Arua, passed away at Port Moresby General Hospital at midday today.” “Our sincere condolences and love go to her family, including Coach John Ovia and Lucy Ovia, who have both been long-serving staff here at Cricket PNG.” “Kaia had a remarkable playing career with the Lewas and at the right time, we will be recognizing that contribution.” “In memory of Kaia Arua.” In Zimbabwe, with a time difference of about six hours to PNG, it was still morning time for the rest of the PNG Lewas when they got the shocking news. The Lewas, who are still out on tour, held a solemn ceremony to farewell and remember their captain, whose favourite shirt number 23 was laid out in her memory. According to Cricket PNG, this is also the number her favourite cricketer, the late Australian Shane Warne had also worn.   At this time, no further information has been disclosed to the media.   Mr Done says: “We wish to respect the family’s privacy at this difficult time, and we will release more details as approved by her family.”