Head coach of the Hebou PNG Barramundis, Dipak Patel says the team is excited ahead of next week’s match against the ACT XI at Manuka Oval, Canberra.
The T20 fixture which will be the curtain raiser to the Prime Minister’s XI and Sri Lanka match is part of the Barramundis’ Australian Tour.
“The Barras have trained very hard and particularly on their Strength & Conditioning Program. However their skills program has been hampered a lot with the adverse weather in Port Moresby. We have a busy year and all preparation phases will be crucial,” said Patel.
Patel added there have been a number of changes made to the team that played in the One Day International series late last year.
“The changes in the squad are due to a couple of senior players still in their rehabilitation program.
"Vagi Boko (Kora), a young leg-spinner is included to give him some exposure on how the Barras setup operates and a chance for him to measure his ability against the top players and teams. He is a spinner that we have been developing during 2016, “said Patel.
He added playing the NSW XI and then later ACT XI was exciting and the team is enjoying the challenge.
“Fixtures of this nature are very important to help the Barras squad to take their skills to higher levels than that in 2016. The Barras really enjoy these challenges and playing in front of large crowds is something they thrive on.
“The PM’s XI fixture is special and the Barras are looking forward to display their own brand of cricket and they are hoping to entertain everyone next week,” said Patel.
(File picture)