HEBOU PNG Barramundis lost their first T20 International match against Ireland by five wickets today at Tony Ireland Stadium in Townsville.
After Ireland’s Captain, William Porterfield won the toss and sent the HEBOU PNG Barramundis, HEBOU PNG were restricted to only 9/92 off their allotted 20 overs.
This was mainly due to some disciplined bowling by Ireland and some indifferent batting from the HEBOU PNG Barramundis.
Sese Bau (22) and Charles Amini Jnr (21) were the main contributors with the bat for the HEBOU PNG Barramundis, while Kevin O’Brien (2/10), Craig Young (2/15) and Andy McBrine (2/17) all picked up two wickets each for Ireland.
In reply, Barramundis’ bowlers got off to a great start, restricting Ireland to 3/30 inside four overs thanks to a quick spell of fast bowling from Norman Vanua and debutant Nosiana Pokana.
Gary Wilson (45) and Kevin O’Brien (11) then guided Ireland out to trouble to eventually pass the score, losing another two wickets with 47 balls remaining.
Norman Vanua was once again the stand out bowler for the HEBOU PNG Barramundis, taking 3/26 off his four overs.
“It was a very disappointing performance from the boys today. We didn’t execute any of our plans today and against a good opposition like Ireland, we got punished,” said Captain, Jack Vare.
“The positive thing is that we have two more matches left in the series and we must execute our plans if we are going to get a result,” said Vare.
The second of the T20I Matches will take place tomorrow at Tony Ireland Stadium in Townsville.
Match will commence at 2pm local time.