Papua New Guinea National Cricket Team

The Papua New Guinea men's national cricket team, affectionately known as the Barramundis, represents the island nation in international cricket. Governed by Cricket PNG, an associate member of the International Cricket Council (ICC) since 1973, the team has steadily risen through the ranks of global cricket. The Barramundis earned One-Day International (ODI) status in 2014 after finishing fourth in the ICC World Cup Qualifier, marking a significant milestone in their cricketing journey. Although they briefly lost both ODI and T20I status in 2018 following a defeat to Nepal, they bounced back strongly by securing a top-four finish in the 2019 ICC World Cricket League Division Two, thereby regaining their ODI standing.
Papua New Guinea is widely regarded as the dominant force in the ICC East Asia-Pacific region, having clinched numerous regional titles and showcasing consistent performances at the Pacific Games. The team has participated in every edition of the ICC World Cup Qualifier, reflecting their sustained commitment to the global cricketing stage. Notably, Papua New Guinea holds the world record for the highest total in a one-day match, 572/7 against New Caledonia in 2007. With the ICC granting full T20 International status to all member nations in 2018, every T20 match played by Papua New Guinea since January 2019 is recognized as a full international, solidifying their growing presence in the shorter format of the game.

Papua New Guinea Cricket Team History

Cricket was introduced to the Territory of Papua in the 1890s by missionaries, and the game quickly resonated with the local population. Early forms of cricket in the region were informal, often involving teams of more than fifty players and matches played with a relaxed approach to the standard rules. The spread of cricket to the Territory of New Guinea occurred later, following Australia's assumption of administrative control under a United Nations mandate. This colonial connection helped establish the sport further across the two territories, laying the foundation for its eventual unification under a national cricketing identity.
In the early years, cricket developed differently across regions. In rural areas, the indigenous communities embraced the sport with enthusiasm, while in urban centres such as Port Moresby, it was largely played by British and Australian expatriates. A formal club competition began in Port Moresby in 1937, signaling a step toward organized cricket. Papua New Guinea’s first international fixture came in 1972 against Australia, featuring a blend of expatriate and indigenous players. This marked the beginning of the nation’s journey in competitive international cricket, culminating in their association membership with the ICC in 1973.
A major hub for cricket in Papua New Guinea is the Motuan region, particularly the village of Hanuabada on the outskirts of Port Moresby. Hanuabada has become a cricketing powerhouse within the country, where the sport is deeply embedded in daily life. From young children to national team stars, cricket is a staple of everyday activity in the village. It was also the birthplace of the Liklik Kricket Competition, a grassroots initiative that has helped nurture local talent. Today, more than half of the national team hails from Hanuabada, showcasing the village’s pivotal role in shaping the identity and success of Papua New Guinea cricket.

Papua New Guinea Cricket Team Current Captain and Coaches

The Papua New Guinea men's national cricket team is currently led by captain Assad Vala, an experienced all-rounder who plays a pivotal role both as a leader and a key performer on the field. Tatenda Taibu, a former Zimbabwean international cricketer, serves as the head coach. He is supported by Mahuru Dai as the batting coach and Willie Gavera as the bowling coach, both former PNG cricketers. 
Vani Morea takes charge as the fielding coach. The support team also includes Loa Nou as the physiotherapist, John Reva as the strength and conditioning coach, and Jack Vare as the team analyst, providing performance data and tactical input. Additionally, former West Indies coach Phil Simmons is involved as a specialist coach or consultant.

Papua New Guinea Cricket Team Captains List

Chris Amini served as the team’s captain in 2014. He was succeeded by Assad Vala, who took over the captaincy in the same year and continues to lead the team to the present day. Vala has been a central figure in PNG cricket, guiding the team through various international tournaments and helping them regain ODI status in 2019. Jack Vare also captained the team for a brief period between 2015 and 2016, likely stepping in during specific series or tournaments. 

Papua New Guinea Cricket Team Trophies and Milestones

• Won the East Asia-Pacific Cricket Trophy in 2001 and 2005, and the East Asia-Pacific Championship in 2007 and 2011. 
• Won the 2022-23 ICC Men's T20 World Cup East Asia-Pacific Qualifier. 
• Have won numerous gold medals in the Pacific Games, including in 1979, 1987, 1991, 2003, 2007, 2011, and 2019. 

Papua New Guinea Cricket Team Records and Honors

Highest score in a one-day match: 572/7 against New Caledonia in 2007.