Konepoti bounce back with dominant nine-wicket win over Hoods

Huon Logistics Konepoti bounced back in style at Amini Park over the weekend, recording a convincing nine-wicket victory over Hoods in the premiers division of Port Moresby Cricket Association.

After a disappointing 97-run loss last week, the newcomers to the premier shield competition announced themselves with authority, securing their first-ever win in top grade in emphatic fashion.

Hoods, who won the toss and chose to bat, struggled to build momentum against Konepoti’s disciplined bowling attack. Despite promising starts from opener Nelson Pate and Archie Vala, both recording 26 runs each, wickets fell at regular intervals, preventing Hoods from forming meaningful partnerships.

The middle and lower order crumbled, with only Timothy Mou establishing 24 runs and Gimana Hauere with 18, offered resistance. Extras particularly wide, contributed heavily to the total, as Hoods managed just 147 all out in 26.1 overs.

Francis Ori was the pick of the bowlers for Konepoti, finishing with a brilliant 4/26, while Kelly Galama [2/23] and Raraga Gewa [1/16] also played key roles in dismantling the Hoods batting lineup.In reply, Konepoti’s chase was nothing short of clinical.

Openers Lekwa Nao and Emmanuel Pokana piled on the runs with a commanding 130-run opening stand. Nao remained unbeaten on a classy 60 off 52 balls, striking boundaries with ease and anchoring the innings. Pokana’s aggressive 58 off 45 balls, featuring two sixes, ensured the required run rate was never in doubt. After his dismissal, Raraga Gewa [10] partnered Nao to take Konepoti home comfortably, reaching 150/1 in just 17.2 overs.

For his match-winning knock and steady presence at the crease, Nao was named player-of-the-match.

This comprehensive victory not only restores Konepoti’s confidence after last week’s setback but also marks a historic moment for the club, as they celebrate their first ever premier division glory in style.