The HEBOU PNG Barramundis started their South Australian Cricket Association (SACA) Premier League campaign on a perfect note after defeating Southern Force comfortably by six wickets in Darwin on Sunday.
Batting first, Southern Force was bowled out for a very competitive 269 inside 49 overs thanks to a brilliant century from opening batsmen Carey (118). Carey was ably supported by Gregory (55) and Patel (31*).
After an opening partnership of 65, the HEBOU PNG Barramundis pegged back the Force batsmen, with Willie Gavera leading the way in his first competitive match for the Barramundis in over 12 months taking 4/34 in nine overs.
Norman Vanua (3/61) was the other multiple wicket taker for the Barramundis while Mahuru Dai (1/39), John Boge Reva (1/37) and Assad Vala (1/22) took a wicket each.
In reply, the HEBOU PNG Barramundis chased down the 270 target in only 44 overs, losing only four (4) wickets on the back of a classy unbeaten century from captain, Vala (113*).
Vala hit ten (10) boundaries and four sixes in his knock. Sese Bau (50) continued his good form hitting a half century while three other batsmen scored at least 20 runs.
Match Summary
Southern Force 10/269 (48.2) A Carey 118, A Gregory 55, A Patel 31*, Willie Gavera 4/34, Norman Vanua 3/61 defeated by HEBOU PNG BARRAMUNDIS 4/270 (44) Assad Vala 113*, Sese Bau 50, Vani Vagi Morea 26, Mahuru Dai 20*, Tony Ura 20, J Pudney 2/54 by 6 wickets.