Vala to lead Barras at ODI Kenya tour

Assad Vala will lead the Barramundis again on the One Day International (ODI) tour in Kenya. (Image: EAP Media)

The PNG Barramundis departed Papua New Guinea today for Dubai before continuing to Kenya for the ICC Cricket World Cup [CWC] Challenge League campaign from October 21–31, with captain Assadollah Vala confident in the team’s preparation for the upcoming 50-over competition.

Vala said the team had trained well since returning from Japan, successfully shifting its focus from the shorter T20 format to 50-over cricket ahead of the international tour.

“The team has been training really well since we returned from Japan. The focus had changed to 50-over cricket from T20. The boys have adapted really well and are looking forward to the upcoming tour,” Vala said.

The Barramundis will play two 50-over matches against the United Arab Emirates [UAE] in Dubai to prepare for the Kenya tournament, where they will play five matches in a crucial campaign to improve their position in Pool A.

Vala also welcomed the inclusion of three players in the squad - Sema Kamea, Doko Rupa and Dauncey Tom - saying their different abilities would add value to the team.

“We are really excited in Sema, Doko and Dauncey in the team. They bring different skill sets to the table, and we are looking forward to them going out there and playing roles,” he added.

Kamea adds a left-arm pace-bowling option, while 19-year-old batting all-rounder Tom earns his first senior national squad selection. Wicketkeeper-batter Rupa also has an opportunity on the playing side.

PNG Barras captain Asad Vala in action during the ICC T20 Men's EAP Qualifier in Japan. (Image: EAP Media)

Vala said the team was approaching every match with the same mindset rather than targeting a particular opponent.

“We are all looking forward to playing all teams, to be honest,” he said.

PNG currently sits third in Pool A and needs a strong campaign to maintain its chance of finishing in the top two.

The Challenge League forms part of the ICC pathway towards qualification for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, making the upcoming matches important for the PNG Barramundis.

The team will open its Kenya campaign against Jersey on Thursday, October 22, before facing Denmark, Qatar, Kuwait and hosts Kenya across the 10-day tournament.