Cricket PNG celebrates SP Sports Awards finalist nominations

Cricket PNG is celebrating the recognition of two of its own in the prestigious 2025 SP Sports Awards, with rising star Gaba Frank and the national women’s team, the PNG Lewas, named among this year’s finalists.

Gaba Frank, captain of the national U19 team, the Garamuts, has been shortlisted for the Junior Male Athlete of the Year award. His leadership and consistent performances on the field have made him a standout figure in PNG’s cricketing circles.

In another major highlight, the PNG Lewas have been nominated for Team of the Year, further cementing their status as one of the country’s most successful and inspiring national teams.

Cricket PNG Chairman Michael Harrison said the nominations reflect the hard work and dedication of the entire cricket community.

“Gaba continues to inspire young cricketers across the country, and the Lewas continue to lead by example in representing our nation with pride on the international stage," he said.

"Being named as finalists highlights the hard work, talent, and commitment of our cricket community.”

Frank was recently named in the Barramundis train-on squad, a promising sign of his growing role in PNG’s men’s cricket. Harrison wished him well in his journey to becoming a future star for the national team.

Gaba Frank in action for the PNG U19 Team *(Image: Supplied)*

He also praised the Lewas for their achievements, including retaining One-Day International (ODI) status last week and climbing to 15th in the world rankings for 50-over cricket and 12th in the T20 format.

"To the Lewas team fantastic news and congratulations on been finalists. Hard work has seen the Lewa’s receive ODI Status last year and only last week extended for another 4 years," Harrison said.

The SP Sports Awards received over 210 nominations this year, with 36 finalists announced across 12 categories. The winners will be revealed during a live presentation night on Saturday, June 14, at the Crown Hotel in Port Moresby. The ceremony will be streamed live on the SP Sports Awards Facebook page and broadcast on FM100.

Cricket PNG will provide updates from the awards night via its Facebook page and website: www.cricketpng.org.pg.

Supporters are encouraged to vote for their favourite nominees in the People’s Choice Award before May 30 via SMS or WhatsApp.