In a thrilling encounter at the ICC T20 World Cup 2024, the West Indies faced Papua New Guinea in their opening match. The game, held at the National Stadium in Georgetown, Guyana, saw a dramatic start, with the West Indies winning the toss and opting to bowl first. As the teams battled it out, the rain added an unexpected twist to the proceedings.

West Indies skipper Rovman Powell strategically decided to bowl first after winning the toss. The Caribbean conditions seemed favorable for the bowlers, and Powell’s decision quickly paid off.

See Also: ‘I would love to…’ – Gautam Gambhir on coaching India National cricket team

Papua New Guinea’s Struggle

Papua New Guinea (PNG) had a rocky start, losing early wickets. The West Indies bowlers were relentless, making it difficult for PNG to build significant partnerships. The scoreboard showed a worrying 7/2 and later 34/3, indicating a tough day at the office for PNG’s top order.

Sese Bau’s Resilient Knock

Amidst the falling wickets, Sese Bau stood tall for PNG. His fighting half-century, scored in 43 balls, was a beacon of hope for his team. Bau’s ability to anchor the innings and keep the scoreboard ticking was commendable, showcasing his resilience and skill.

Bau’s innings were crucial in stabilizing PNG’s innings. His half-century brought some respectability to the total and provided a platform for the lower order to add valuable runs towards the end.

Sese Bau made history by becoming the first PNG player to score a T20I fifty against a full-member team. This achievement is a significant milestone for PNG cricket and showcases Bau’s talent and determination.

PNG’s total of 136 runs was a testament to their determination. Despite a shaky start, they managed to post a competitive score thanks to Bau’s innings and contributions from other players towards the end.

West Indies Bowling Prowess

West Indies used six bowlers, each contributing effectively. The bowling attack was led by Alzarri Joseph and Andre Russell, who played pivotal roles

Joseph and Russell each took two wickets, ensuring that PNG never got into a rhythm. The other bowlers also chipped in, keeping the pressure on PNG throughout their innings.

Andre Russell’s Milestone

Andre Russell’s performance was a highlight of the match. By picking up two wickets, Russell crossed the milestone of 50 T20I wickets, cementing his status as a key player for the West Indies.

Russell’s all-round abilities were on full display. His economical bowling and timely wickets were instrumental in restricting PNG to a modest total.

The Challenging Chase for West Indies

Chasing 137, the West Indies faced an early setback as Johnson Charles was dismissed for a golden duck. This unexpected wicket added a twist to what was anticipated to be a straightforward chase.

As the West Indies began their chase, rain interrupted play. This unexpected halt added uncertainty to the match, making fans and players anxious about the outcome.

Depending on the duration of the rain delay, the match could be shortened, leading to a revised target under the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method. This scenario could favor the West Indies or give PNG a fighting chance.

WI vs PNG Match Preview

West Indies will face PNG in the second game of the T20 World Cup. The game will be played at the Providence Stadium in Guyana and will begin at 8:00 PM IST on June 2. West Indies will be among the favourites to win the T20 World Cup in 2024. The hosts have been on fire in the buildup to the tournament, coming off a brilliant series victory over South Africa. It will take a massive effort from PNG to beat the West Indies; however, upsets in T20Is are not uncommon. Even if they play their best cricket, PNG lacks the quality to put this West Indies team to the test.

WI vs PNG Match Details

West Indies vs Papua New Guinea – 2nd Match, T20 World Cup 2024

Venue: Providence Stadium – Providence

Date & Time: 02nd June 2024 at 08:00 PM IST 

Live Streaming: Disney+Hotstar

WI vs PNG Venue Stats

WI vs PNG Pitch Report

The wicket at the Providence Stadium in Guyana will be ideal for cricket. Pacers and spinners will both benefit from some assistance, while batters can score quickly if they get set thanks to the fast outfield and short boundaries.

WI vs PNG Weather Report

The weather forecast for the contest does not look promising, with a 70% chance of rain on match day. The humidity will be 80 percent, and the wind speed will be 15 kilometers per hour.

WI vs PNG Last Five Matches

WI vs PNG Head-to-Head Stats

Injury News

No Injury. Will be added when there is an update.

Also Read: ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, warm-up wrap: India vs Bangladesh

WI vs PNG Probable Playing XIs:

Papua New Guinea Probable Playing XIs

Lega Siaka, Tony Ura, Assad Vala (c), Charles Amini, Norman Vanua, Sese Bau, Kiplin Doriga (wk), Hiri Hiri, Kabua Morea, Alei Nao, Chad Soper

West Indies Probable Playing XIs

Brandon King, Johnson Charles, Shai Hope, Shimron Hetmyer, Nicholas Pooran, Rovman Powell (C) Andre Russell, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Gudakesh Motie, Alzarri Joseph

Topmost Picks for WI vs PNG Dream11 Prediction:

Top Picks – Papua New Guinea

• Tony Ura- Tony Ura would look for some decent performances for his team in the T20 World Cup. He is the leading run scorer for PNG in T20I cricket, with 1618 runs.
• Normal Vanua- Vanua is the strike bowler for PNG. He is the leading wicket-taker for his team, with 63 wickets in 55 games and would be eyeing an impressive performance in the mega event.

Top Picks – West Indies

• Nicholas Pooran- Pooran has been on fire in T20 cricket for a while now. After a stunning run in IPL, a big performance is expected from him in the T20 World Cup 2024.
• Andre Russell- Andre Russell will have a big role to play in the T20 World Cup for West Indies. Russell has form behind him and did exceptionally well in IPL for KKR, making vital contributions with bat and ball.

Suggested Playing XI N0.1 for WI vs PNG Dream11 Team:

Nicholas Pooran, Kiplin Doriga, Brandon King, Lega Siaka, Assad Vala, Charles Amini, Sese Bau, Andre Russell(C), Akeal Hosein, Chad Soper, Alzarri Joseph(VC)

Suggested Playing XI N0.2 for WI vs PNG Dream11 Team:

Nicholas Pooran(VC), Kiplin Doriga, Brandon King(C), Lega Siaka, Assad Vala, Charles Amini, Sese Bau, Andre Russell, Akeal Hosein, Chad Soper, Alzarri Joseph

Captain and Vice-Captain Options:

Captain – Andre Russell, Brandon King

Vice-captain – Alzarri Joseph, Nicholas Pooran

Wicketkeeper – Nicholas Pooran

WI vs PNG Probable Winners:

West Indies are the clear favourites to win. There is a significant difference in quality between the two teams, and any upset appears unlikely. West Indies are a formidable force and one of the favourites to win the title. PNG appears to be in serious trouble, and if the West Indies bat first, they could score 250 or more runs. Back the West Indies for a big win. Considering the team combination, West Indies are expected to win this match.

WI vs PNG Match Preview

West Indies will face PNG in the second game of the T20 World Cup. The game will be played at the Providence Stadium in Guyana and will begin at 8:00 PM IST on June 2. West Indies will be among the favourites to win the T20 World Cup in 2024. The hosts have been on fire in the buildup to the tournament, coming off a brilliant series victory over South Africa. It will take a massive effort from PNG to beat the West Indies; however, upsets in T20Is are not uncommon. Even if they play their best cricket, PNG lacks the quality to put this West Indies team to the test.

WI vs PNG Match Details

West Indies vs Papua New Guinea – 2nd Match, T20 World Cup 2024

Venue: Providence Stadium – Providence

Date & Time: 02nd June 2024 at 08:00 PM IST 

Live Streaming: Disney+Hotstar

WI vs PNG Venue Stats

WI vs PNG Pitch Report

The wicket at the Providence Stadium in Guyana will be ideal for cricket. Pacers and spinners will both benefit from some assistance, while batters can score quickly if they get set thanks to the fast outfield and short boundaries.

WI vs PNG Weather Report

The weather forecast for the contest does not look promising, with a 70% chance of rain on match day. The humidity will be 80 percent, and the wind speed will be 15 kilometers per hour.

WI vs PNG Last Five Matches

WI vs PNG Head-to-Head Stats

Injury News

No Injury. Will be added when there is an update.

Also Read: ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, warm-up wrap: India vs Bangladesh

WI vs PNG Probable Playing XIs:

Papua New Guinea Probable Playing XIs

Lega Siaka, Tony Ura, Assad Vala (c), Charles Amini, Norman Vanua, Sese Bau, Kiplin Doriga (wk), Hiri Hiri, Kabua Morea, Alei Nao, Chad Soper

West Indies Probable Playing XIs

Brandon King, Johnson Charles, Shai Hope, Shimron Hetmyer, Nicholas Pooran, Rovman Powell (C) Andre Russell, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Gudakesh Motie, Alzarri Joseph

Topmost Picks for WI vs PNG Dream11 Prediction:

Top Picks – Papua New Guinea

• Tony Ura- Tony Ura would look for some decent performances for his team in the T20 World Cup. He is the leading run scorer for PNG in T20I cricket, with 1618 runs.
• Normal Vanua- Vanua is the strike bowler for PNG. He is the leading wicket-taker for his team, with 63 wickets in 55 games and would be eyeing an impressive performance in the mega event.

Top Picks – West Indies

• Nicholas Pooran- Pooran has been on fire in T20 cricket for a while now. After a stunning run in IPL, a big performance is expected from him in the T20 World Cup 2024.
• Andre Russell- Andre Russell will have a big role to play in the T20 World Cup for West Indies. Russell has form behind him and did exceptionally well in IPL for KKR, making vital contributions with bat and ball.

Suggested Playing XI N0.1 for WI vs PNG Dream11 Team:

Nicholas Pooran, Kiplin Doriga, Brandon King, Lega Siaka, Assad Vala, Charles Amini, Sese Bau, Andre Russell(C), Akeal Hosein, Chad Soper, Alzarri Joseph(VC)

Suggested Playing XI N0.2 for WI vs PNG Dream11 Team:

Nicholas Pooran(VC), Kiplin Doriga, Brandon King(C), Lega Siaka, Assad Vala, Charles Amini, Sese Bau, Andre Russell, Akeal Hosein, Chad Soper, Alzarri Joseph

Captain and Vice-Captain Options:

Captain – Andre Russell, Brandon King

Vice-captain – Alzarri Joseph, Nicholas Pooran

Wicketkeeper – Nicholas Pooran

WI vs PNG Probable Winners:

West Indies are the clear favourites to win. There is a significant difference in quality between the two teams, and any upset appears unlikely. West Indies are a formidable force and one of the favourites to win the title. PNG appears to be in serious trouble, and if the West Indies bat first, they could score 250 or more runs. Back the West Indies for a big win. Considering the team combination, West Indies are expected to win this match.

As the world of cricket is evolving globally, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has taken measures to enhance the sport’s reach. Be it through quirky promotional strategies or tournament formats, they have done it all to achieve it.

The upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2024, which will be held in the West Indies and USA, acts as the byproduct of it. With over 20 teams and five groups, it will be exciting and intense to watch how the tournament goes on, especially from the nine associate teams, who are up to display their promising game. Here’s a list of the 2024 T20 World Cup associate members’ team captains.

1. United States of America: Monank Patel

Born in Gujarat, India, Monank Patel has been one of the robust batters of the USA cricketing arsenal. In his 25-match T20I stint, he has scored 441 runs at an average of 22.1. He started his initial cricketing days for the Gujarat Cricket team, where he has represented as a batter in the Under-16 & Under-19 squads.

His captaincy has flummoxed the Bangladesh side, leading to a series win against them recently. This impressive track record makes him an interesting key player to watch out for in the tournament, sparking excitement among cricket enthusiasts.

2. Namibia: Gerhard Erasmus 

Gerhard Erasmus will represent Namibia as a captain in the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup. Kickstarting his career for the country way back in 2011, Erasmus has played a pivotal role in being the all-rounder face for the team.

In his 57 T20I matches, he has scored 1339 runs at an average of 32.66, while he has scalped 43 wickets at an economy of 5.1. In addition, he has won the 2022 ICC Associate Cricketer of the Year, which sets him to lead from the front for his side in the coming clashes.

3. Canada: Saad Bin Zafar

Canada would debut in the T20 World Cup tournament format, with Saad Bin Zafar leading the team. He has been one of the most reliable pacers in the team’s bowling attack. He comes in during the middle overs and delivers some economical overs, putting pressure on the hitters and taking up wickets.

Zafar can also score runs from later down the order, so having him on the team may ensure you score in both innings. In his 38-match T20I stint, he has scalped 43 wickets at a commendable pacer’s economy of 6.44.

4. Oman: Aqib Ilyas

Oman’s captain, Aqib Ilyas, hails from Sialkot, Pakistan, where he got his craze taste towards the sport of cricket. Predominant for his all-rounding abilities, the captain will use his bat and ball skills to keep the team together.

The 31-year-old was named the Player of the Series in the Asia Qualifiers and is one of the squad’s most seasoned members, and he will rely on that expertise in the tournament. Sulehri’s efficacy as an all-rounder makes him a must-have for the Oman team. In 48 T20Is, he has made 1176 runs at an average of 28.68 and 37 wickets at an economy of 5.93.

5. Uganda: Brian Masaba

Brian Masaba will be leading the Ugandan side in the upcoming tournament. Calling it a ‘Dream come True’ moment for his team, it wouldn’t be a surprise for an associate member like Uganda to give its best on the cricket field amongst its top-notch competitors.

The 32-year-old cricketer has played 57 T20I matches, scoring 433 runs at an average of 19, and scalped 18 wickets at an economy of 5.26.

Also Read: Know everything about India’s 2024 T20 World Cup warm-up match

6. Papua New Guinea: Assadollah Vala

Assadollah Vala is Papua New Guinea’s T20 World Cup 2024 captain. He is one of the team’s most experienced players, able to contribute with both the bat and the ball.

Vala was PNG’s second-highest run-scorer in the East Asia Pacific Qualifiers held last year. The left-hander enjoys batting long and can put up huge numbers. Furthermore, he is a skilled off-spinner. Throughout his 59-match stint, he scored 1244 runs and took 34 key wickets.

7. Netherlands: Scott Edwards

The Dutch cricket side would be under the captaincy of wicketkeeper batter Scott Edwards. Edwards’ batting is defined by elegance rather than power, as he frustrates fields with aggressive running and various sweeps and reverses.

His leadership has led the Netherlands to unprecedented success, including a top-eight performance at the 2022 T20 World Cup and direct qualifying for the following edition. In 60 T20I appearances, he has scored 737 runs with a strike rate of 120 and an average of 20.

8. Nepal: Rohit Paudel

Rohit Paudel is a 21-year-old young and emerging player who is all set to lead an experienced campaign of the Nepal cricket team in its second T20 World Cup appearance. Paudel, a youthful and skilled batter, is one of Nepal’s most consistent hitters.

Paudel, a youthful and skilled batter, is one of Nepal’s most consistent hitters. The 21-year-old will most likely bat at No. 3 and bear much responsibility for the Nepal team’s success. In his 59 appearances, he has 1442 runs at an average of 33.53 with a strike rate of 133.

9. Scotland: Richie Berrington

Born in Pretoria, South Africa, Richie Berrington is synonymous with being an experienced candidate and leader for the Scotland Cricket team. The 37-year-old all-rounder is prominent for his ball-striking ability. Also, his ability to give the ball a bit of seam and medium pace is another speciality of cricketing skills.

It is no surprise that the associate member of Scotland would utilise the experience quotient of their captain. In his colossal 112 T20I matches campaign, he has made 2628 runs at an average of 30.91 and scalped 36 wickets at an economy of 7.68.

Cricket in Papua New Guinea has seen a rapid rise in popularity over recent years. The nation’s dedication to the sport is evident in their consistent performances and increasing participation at various levels. PNG’s journey to the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 is a testament to their growing prowess and commitment to making a mark on the global stage.

PNG’s Performance in T20 Format

The Papua New Guinea team’s performance in the T20 format has been fairly average over the past two years. They have played 30 T20 matches, managing to secure victory in 14 of those encounters. Despite these mixed results, the team is gearing up to deliver a standout performance in the upcoming World Cup. Under Gerhard Erasmus’s leadership, the PNG team is looking to make a significant impact in the tournament.

See Also: Catch all the broadcast details for the T20 World Cup 2024

PNG’s Road to the T20 World Cup 2024

PNG dominated the qualifying rounds with six consecutive wins against Japan, Vanuatu, and the Philippines. Under the guidance of newly appointed head coach Tatenda Taibu, the team demonstrated remarkable skill and determination. Key players like Chad Soper, who impressed during tours to Malaysia and Oman, have been pivotal in securing their place in the World Cup.

SWOT Analysis of Papua New Guinea’s T20 World Cup 2024 squad

Strengths

PNG’s foremost strength lies in its vibrant and dynamic style of play. Its energetic approach to batting and fielding can disrupt the rhythm of more established teams. Their fielding, characterized by quick reflexes and athleticism, is particularly notable.

Another significant strength is the unity and team spirit that PNG exhibits. With a closely-knit squad, the players often punch above their weight, leveraging their camaraderie and collective effort. This unity is crucial in high-pressure situations where team cohesion and support play pivotal roles.

Weaknesses

A significant weakness for PNG is their lack of experience on the world stage. Unlike traditional cricketing powerhouses, PNG’s players have had limited exposure to top-tier international competition. This inexperience can lead to nervousness and inconsistency, especially in high-stakes matches.

Additionally, their batting lineup needs more depth. While PNG has some talented top-order batsmen, the middle and lower order often need help maintaining momentum or recovering from early collapses. Stronger bowling attacks can exploit this vulnerability, putting additional pressure on their key batsmen.

Opportunities

The 2024 T20 World Cup presents a tremendous opportunity for PNG to elevate its cricketing profile globally. Performing well in this tournament can boost the sport’s popularity in PNG and inspire a new generation of cricketers.

Moreover, the World Cup offers a platform for PNG players to gain international recognition. Good performances can attract attention from T20 leagues worldwide, providing players with valuable experience and exposure to higher levels of competition. Rising stars like Tony Ura and Assad Vala have the chance to shine on this global stage.

Threats

PNG faces significant threats from the established cricketing nations it will encounter in the World Cup. Teams like India, Australia, and England have deep, experienced squads and are well-versed in handling World Cup pressures. Competing against such formidable teams will be challenging.

Another threat is the unpredictable nature of T20 cricket. The format’s inherent volatility means that one poor performance can drastically affect PNG’s campaign. Maintaining consistency and composure throughout the tournament will be essential for their success.

PNG’s Campaign Schedule

PNG begins their campaign with a tough first-up encounter against hosts West Indies on June 2. A match against Uganda follows this on June 5, where both sides will likely be hunting for their first-ever victory at the tournament. They face Afghanistan on June 13 before taking on East Asia-Pacific heavyweights New Zealand to round out group stage action.

Papua New Guinea squad: Assadollah Vala (c), CJ Amini (vc), Alei Nao, Chad Soper, Hila Vare, Hiri Hiri, Jack Gardner, John Kariko, Kabua Vagi Morea, Kipling Doriga, Lega Siaka, Norman Vanua, Sema Kamea, Sese Bau, Tony Ura

PNG is all set for their second appearance at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup as they named their 15-member squad set to feature in Group C at the tournament. Led by the seasoned campaigner Assad Vala, the team is poised to make a mark on the global stage, building on their past performances and aiming for new heights in the 2024 edition. Vala’s leadership prowess was evident in the 2021 edition of the tournament, where he steered the team with aplomb.

Squad Composition

The composition of the Papua New Guinea squad reflects a blend of continuity and fresh talent. Vala is joined by 10 players who featured in the 2021 campaign, underscoring the team’s stability and cohesion. Notable inclusions for the 2024 tournament include Jack Gardner, who moves up from his reserve role, and the versatile CJ Amini, appointed vice-captain to support Vala’s leadership.

See Also: Watch: Virat Kohli’s hilarious Punjabi chat with cricketers goes viral

Qualification Journey

Papua New Guinea’s path to securing a spot in the T20 World Cup was marked by dominance in the East Asia-Pacific regional final held in July 2023. The team’s unbeaten run on home soil showcased their prowess, as they dispatched opponents Japan, Vanuatu, and the Philippines with conviction, affirming their status as a force to be reckoned with in the region.

Coaching Staff

A significant transition in the coaching setup sees former Zimbabwean cricketer Tatenda Taibu as head coach. Taibu’s appointment brings a fresh perspective and tactical insight to the team, complementing the on-field leadership of Vala. The cohesive collaboration between the coaching staff and players bodes well for Papua New Guinea’s campaign in the Caribbean.

Player Spotlight

Among the standout performers in the squad is Chad Soper, who returns to the fold after impressing in recent outings. His all-round skills add depth to the team, while young spinner John Kariko brings youthful exuberance and a promising track record in West Indies conditions, as evidenced by his exploits in the U19 World Cup.

Tournament Schedule

The Barramundis face a challenging start to their campaign, squaring off against hosts West Indies in their opening fixture on June 2nd. Subsequent encounters against Uganda and Afghanistan promise intriguing matchups, with Papua New Guinea aiming to assert their dominance and secure vital points in the group stage.

Papua New Guinea squad: Assadollah Vala (c), CJ Amini (vc), Alei Nao, Chad Soper, Hila Vare, Hiri Hiri, Jack Gardner, John Kariko, Kabua Vagi Morea, Kipling Doriga, Lega Siaka, Norman Vanua, Sema Kamea, Sese Bau, Tony Ura