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PNG Barramundis

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Ryan Ani: From Raukele to the Barramandis

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A fresh face is joining the PNG Barramandis as they head to Japan for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup East Asia-Pacific (EAP) Qualifier. At just 22 years old, Ryan Ani is ready to make his international debut.

Ani, who hails from Hula and Babaka in the Rigo Coastal area of Central Province, grew up with a cricket bat in his hand. His journey started at the Raukele Cricket Club (RCC) within the Port Moresby Cricket Association, a place connected to his father’s side of the family.

“Cricket ran as our family sport, it was part of our lives. Weekends were mostly about cricket, and I grew up loving the sport,” Ani said.

His rise wasn’t overnight. Ani started playing seriously in 2013 as a 10-year-old in the Under-12 division. He worked his way up through the U15 and U18 ranks, showing the kind of discipline and passion needed to reach the top level.

Beyond the pitch, Ani is proving that you can master both sports and studies. Just last month, he graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business and Management from the Institute of Business Studies (IBS) University. For him, the game is about more than just runs; it’s about character.

“What I love about cricket is the discipline, commitment, and dedication. The lessons you learn in life can also apply in cricket. It shapes your morals and values both on and off the field,” he said.

Ani’s ticket to the national team came after a standout performance in the Boroko Motors Isuzu Men’s T20 Smash domestic tournament earlier this year. Now, he wants to use his platform to help the team and motivate the next generation.

“I would love to play more matches and seize every opportunity to support my teammates, while also inspiring others who may or may not know the sport,” he added.

While he is looking forward to the future, Ani often looks back at a defining moment in 2022. Playing for Raukele in the Premier Division, he smashed his first century during a tough chase against Coasters Cricket Club. His team was chasing over 300 runs, and things looked grim.

“All hope seemed to fall, but I didn’t give up. I held my end and gave my team hope. We chased down the total and won the game, that’s my favorite memory,” he recalled.

As the Barramandis begin their campaign in Japan from 8-18 May, all eyes will be on Ani. His debut isn’t just a personal win, it’s a sign of the young talent keeping the spirit of PNG cricket alive.

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PNG Barramundis Receive Home Support in Guernsey Ahead of Jersey Tour

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The Papua New Guinea (PNG) Barramundis national cricket team recently concluded a series of three trial matches in Guernsey, part of their preparation for the upcoming Jersey Tour.

The warm-up fixtures were seen as a success, with the team sharpening their skills and building momentum for the international campaign.

A highlight of the Guernsey stopover was the unexpected support from a Papua New Guinean family living on the island.

For three days, Mr. Vele, his wife Elizabeth, and their son Genailiwa Kaiulo cheered on the team, proudly flying the PNG colours from the stands.

In a gesture of thanks, Barramundis batsman Kipling Doriga presented a team training shirt to the family on Monday, August 18, 2025, their final day in Guernsey.

Head Coach John Ovia noted the positive impact the support had on the players.

“The boys got excited when they saw PNG colours supporting them on,” Ovia said.

“It means a lot to carry the colours of the country and to have fans abroad. We thank the Kaiulo family for their support, especially little champion Genailiwa Kaiulo.”

The Barramundis are now focused on the Jersey Tour, where they will compete in a series of international fixtures.

The team is confident that the trial matches in Guernsey have prepared them for a strong performance.

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Cricket

Barramundis Claim First Win Commanding Six-Wicket Victory

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The Papua New Guinea Barramundis have recorded the first win of their tour, defeating Guernsey by six wickets in a Men’s T20I warm-up match.

The victory at the College Field was spearheaded by a blistering 85 from opener Sese Bau, who was named player of the match for his dominant performance.

After winning the toss and electing to bowl first, PNG’s disciplined bowling attack effectively restricted Guernsey to 165 for 6 from their 20 overs. The Barramundis’ bowlers maintained composure under pressure, with Alei Nao delivering a standout performance, claiming 2 for 21 from his four overs, including the crucial wickets of Lucas Barker and Josh Butler.

Important breakthroughs were also made by Kabua Vagi Morea (1 for 30) and John Kariko (1 for 33), while key run-outs from Sese Bau and Hiri Vare further stalled Guernsey’s innings.

Chasing a competitive total of 165, the Barramundis reached 168 for 4 in 19.2 overs, securing the victory with four balls to spare. PNG’s reply began steadily before Sese Bau launched a dominant innings, smashing 13 fours and two sixes in his 52-ball knock. He kept the scoreboard ticking and ensured the required run rate remained manageable. Bau shared a 99-run stand with Boio Ray, who contributed a fluent 46 off 35 balls, including four boundaries and two maximums.

Captain Assadollah Vala guided the chase home with an unbeaten 14 from 12 balls, supported by Hila George Vaieke Vare’s quickfire 9*. For Guernsey, Charlie Forshaw was the pick of the bowlers, taking 3 for 29 from his four overs.

“Guernsey came hard at us, especially with the bat, but the PNG Barramundis stayed disciplined and trusted our batting,” said Barramundis Coach John Ovia.

The victory levels the team’s confidence and showcases their ability to adapt to foreign conditions and execute under pressure.

The Barramundis will look to carry this winning momentum into their next warm-up fixtures—two 50-over games against Guernsey on Saturday and Sunday; before heading to Jersey to begin the second round of the ICC Challenge League A. In the upcoming series, the Barras will face Denmark, Kuwait, Kenya, Jersey, and Qatar.

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