Black Bass captain Sese Bau reflects on ISUZU T20 Smash and rising talent across PNG

Izusu Men's T20 Smash 2025 grand final Player with most wickets and Black Bass captain Sese Bau receiving his trophy from Cricket PNG Life Member Kuhaseelan Rajadurai *(Image: Cricket PNG)*

Black Bass captain and seasoned Papua New Guinea Barramundis all-rounder Sese Bau has expressed pride in his team’s performance following a hard-fought grand final in the 2025 ISUZU Men’s T20 Smash, held over the weekend.

Despite finishing as runners-up to the Cassowaries, Bau celebrated his team’s journey and the spirit of competition displayed throughout the tournament. He was also recognised at the trophy presentation, taking home the award for most wickets in the tournament.

"I feel good and proud of myself, but the credit goes to my team for the effort we put in together to the games," Bau said after the decider on Saturday at Amini Park.

“As captain of the Black Bass team during the tournament, I took ownership and led from the front with both the bat and ball. The grand final even though we a runner ups, I would like to congratulate my team players.”

Bau, known for his composure under pressure, delivered standout performances throughout the tournament.

He was named Player of the Match in three consecutive fixtures from May 10 - 12, impressing with the bat on Saturday, with the ball on Sunday, and delivering an all-round performance on Monday.

Beyond his own contributions, Bau highlighted the broader impact of the tournament in nurturing PNG’s emerging cricket talent.

Runner ups of the ISUZU Men's T20 SMASH 2025 Black Bass *(Image: Cricket PNG)*

“As a Barramundi, it’s great to see so many talented players from other provinces and Port Moresby cricket competing at this level,” he said.

“Some of the players are the best from their regions and have had the opportunity to play alongside national players, which is a great experience for their growth.”

Bau emphasized the ISUZU T20 Smash as a crucial part of PNG’s cricket development pipeline.

“This tournament is very important. It gives young players a chance to showcase their skills and grow their cricket knowledge. It’s an opportunity for future national team prospects to develop into better cricketers.”

He also acknowledged the role of sponsors and Cricket PNG in making the tournament possible.

“Special thanks to Boroko Motors for sponsoring this year’s ISUZU Women’s and Men’s T20 Smash. Their support has provided a great platform not only for us but also for players from other centres.”

The 2025 ISUZU T20 Smash came to a close on a high note with a thrilling final, underscoring the tournament’s growing significance as a high-performance platform for national selection and grassroots development alike.