Kila-Pat leads Aioro Waves to grand final victory

A star-studded performance by Herea Kila-Pat powered the Aioro Waves to a thrilling seven-wicket win over the Kadeboro Stars in the Tubusereia Cricket Association grand final on Saturday.

Kila-Pat, who was named man of the match, smashed a stunning 57 runs off just 36 balls to lead his side to their third premiership title in five consecutive grand final appearances.

After winning the toss and electing to bowl, the Waves dominated early in the Twenty-20 showdown, taking quick wickets to restrict the Stars from gaining momentum or reaching double digits in the early overs.

Waves captain Kila-Pat said the team stuck to their bowling strategy, maintaining tight lines and forcing dot balls.

“Our plan worked out well,” he told NBC News after the victory. “Our bowlers focused on hitting the wickets and restricting boundary balls, which helped us keep the pressure on.”

The Kadeboro Stars, led by inspirational skipper Moale Tau, had a shaky start. Star batter Eddie Tau was dismissed for just 1 run by Jesse Tau in the early overs. However, George Loi [44] and Tauhura Tau [40] steadied the innings, combining for 84 runs and lifting the Stars to a competitive total.

But the Waves’ bowlers returned with precision and discipline, eventually bowling out the Stars for 135 in 19.5 overs.

“The key goal was to make the grand final, and we’re proud of what our young team achieved,” Stars captain Moale Tau said post-match. “It’s a great learning experience for the rising talents in our side.”

Chasing a target of 136, the Waves came out firing in the second innings. Openers Tauedea Tau and Kila-Pat got off to a flying start, with Tau contributing 25 off 16 balls before being bowled out.

Kila-Pat continued the assault, later partnering with Donny Billy to guide the chase. The former PNG Garamuts star remained unbeaten, striking eight fours and three sixes in a commanding innings.

“I’m proud of our bowlers. They set a strong platform for our batters,” Kila-Pat said. “We didn’t feel pressured and were confident in chasing down the target.”

Middle-order batters Nou and Tabu Geita added a crucial 44 runs, helping Waves comfortably reach 140 for 3 in just 13.2 overs, sealing the grand final win by seven wickets.

“Our preparation and team bonding played a crucial role in this victory,” Kila-Pat concluded. “It was a true team effort that brought us this success.”