Papua New Guinea’s national cricket team, the Barramundis, has clinched a spot in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 following an impressive victory over the Philippines in the ongoing East Asia Pacific Qualifier.

As the hosts of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup East Asia Pacific Qualifier, Papua New Guinea entered the tournament as favorites and lived up to the expectations by delivering dominant performances in the Qualifier stage.

Led by captain Assad Vala, the Barramundis displayed an exemplary performance with an undefeated record in all five games played so far. They emerged victorious twice against Vanuatu and the Philippines, as well as once against Japan.

Their most recent triumph against the Philippines earned them 10 points from five wins, securing their place in the 2024 T20 World Cup with one game remaining against Japan on Saturday, July 29th. The Barramundis’ remarkable achievements in the qualifier have paved the way for their exciting participation in the prestigious ICC Men’s T20 World Cup next year.

ICC Men’s T20 World Cup East Asia Pacific Qualifier Points Table:

How Papua New Guinea (PNG) Secured their Qualification:

PNG embarked on their qualification journey with a commanding victory over Vanuatu. Spearheaded by the 19-year-old John Kariko, who delivered an exceptional Player of the Match performance with figures of 3/6, Vanuatu’s batting was restricted to 71/8. The hosts comfortably chased down the target in just 6.3 overs, claiming a convincing nine-wicket win.

In their subsequent clash, PNG made headlines against the Philippines, courtesy of Kabua Morea’s scintillating five-wicket haul, including a hat-trick. Opting to bat first, PNG posted a competitive 162/7. Morea wreaked havoc, decimating the Philippines’ batting lineup with his spell of 5/9, resulting in their collapse for a mere 45 runs.

The team’s winning streak continued as they secured comfortable victories against Japan and Vanuatu in the subsequent matches, triumphing by six wickets and 39 runs, respectively.

In their most recent encounter, PNG once again showcased their exceptional abilities, cruising to a resounding 100-run victory over the Philippines in Port Moresby. A remarkable 118-run opening partnership laid the foundation for a mammoth score of 229/6 in their allotted 20 overs.

The target proved insurmountable for the Philippines as PNG’s bowlers skillfully restricted them to 129/7, cementing their qualification for the prestigious ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.