The City Pharmacy PNG Lewas squad has been named for next month’s International Cricket Council (ICC) Women’s World Cup Qualifier 2017 in Sri Lanka.
The 14-member squad was announced today at Stop N Shop (Central Waigani) by Lewas team manager, Helen Macindoe.
Veteran all-rounder, Pauke Siaka will captain the side that is dominated by Port Moresby based players.
Norma Ovasuru (Gold Coast, Australia) and Hinamutawa Philip (Ahioma, Milne Bay) are the only two players based outside of Port Moresby.
The qualifier will be played in Sri Lanka’s capital Colombo and will be staged from February 7-21.
“It is the first time that the Lewas qualified for this event since 2008. In 2008 the event was held in South Africa and we lost badly.
“This time around, I am quietly confident that we can raise some eyebrows among the other teams. We are grouped with the heavy weights in South Africa, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Associate Member Scotland.
“Our mission is to qualify for the ICC Women’s World Cup in England later in the year and play at Lords.
“On behalf of the CPNG Chairman, Wayne Dorgan and our Board Members, we would like to officially wish our girls all the best in Sri Lanka. I know you will all do you families, Cricket PNG, City Pharmacy, PNG and most importantly yourself proud,” said Macindoe.
The Lewas will be one out of the ten teams vying for the last four spots available for the World Cup that will be in the United Kingdom from June 26 to July 23 this year.
From the qualifier, only the top four top countries of the Super Six stage will advance onto the event proper.
Groups in the qualifier:
Group A – India, Sri Lanka, Ireland, Zimbabwe and Thailand
Group B – South Africa, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Scotland and Papua New Guinea.
City Pharmacy PNG Lewas Squad:
Pauke Siaka (POMCA)
Helen Buruka (POMCA)
Ravini Oa (POMCA)
Veru Kila Frank (POMCA)
Konio Oala (POMCA)
Brenda Hoi Tau (POMCA)
Kopi John (POMCA)
Mairi Tom (POMCA)
Hinamutawa Philip (Ahioma CA)
Sibona Lucy Jimmy (POMCA)
Vicky Araa (POMCA)
Kaia Arua (POMCA)
Norma Ovasuru (Gold Coast, Australia)
Tanya Ruma (POMCA)
Officials
Rodney Maha (Coach)
Cathryn Fitzpatrick (Coach)
Billy Ame (S & C Coach)
Dolly Apollo (Physio)
Helen Macindoe (Team Manger)