The Hebou PNG Barramundis’ Australian Tour got off to a bumpy start after going down by six runs to the New South Wales XI in a rain affected match at Pratten Park yesterday.
Batting first, the hosts were at 3/98 before the rain stopped play after only 23 overs bowled.
Jordan Gaud was unbeaten on 44 runs for the NSW XI while Nosiana Pokana (1/7), John Boge Reva (1/8) and Mahuru Dai (1/20) all picked up a wicket for the Barramundis.
Under the Duck-Worth-Lewis System, the Barramundis required 99 runs in just 15 overs.
In their pursuit, the Barramundis lost early wickets that put them deep in trouble at 4/34.
Vani Vagi Morea (22*), Mahuru Dai (16) and Dogodo Bau (10), steadied the innings to push for an unlikely victory.
In the end, the Barramundis fell six runs short.
Brisbane Heat, left-arm fast bowler, Josh Laylor was the pick of the bowlers for the NSW XI taking 4/23.
Barramundis captain, Assad Vala, was happy with how his team adapted to the tough conditions but was disappointed that they couldn’t get the win.
“The boys handled themselves very well in those conditions with play being stopped, teams going on and off due to rain, but was very happy with the boys on how they handled that situation. At the same time, we were disappointed not to get the result against a quality NSW XI side,” said Vala.
“The bowlers were exceptional in their execution of their plans with young Nosiana (Pokana), Alei (Nao) and Willie (Gavera) doing a great job. Our batting was not up to the standards we know we can perform at,” said Vala.