Ura scores big for PNG Barramundis in ICC Qualifier

Hula Village in the Rigo District of Central Province continues to celebrate one of its proud cricket players, veteran Tony Ura, following his outstanding performances for the PNG Barramundis team at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup East Asia Pacific Qualifier in Japan.

The 36-year-old batsman Ura, who is also a member of the Port Moresby Cricket Association (POMCA) club Raukele Cricket Club, has been one of the standout performers for PNG during the tournament with explosive batting displays that have helped drive the team into the Super Six stage of the qualifier (12-18 May).

On Saturday, May 9th, Ura delivered a sensational unbeaten century against South Korea at Korogi Sports Park in Nisshin, Japan, guiding PNG to a massive 136-run victory.

The experienced opening batsman smashed an unbeaten 106 runs from just 55 balls, including eight boundaries and four sixes, at a strike rate of 192.72. His innings earned him Player of the Match honors as PNG posted 197/3 before bowling South Korea out for 61.

Ura also shared a dominant 137-run opening partnership with Sese Bau, laying the platform for one of PNG’s strongest performances of the qualifying campaign.

Just a day later, on Sunday, 10 May, Ura continued his destructive form against the Cook Islands in match 9 of the tournament.

The veteran opener blasted 74 runs from only 33 deliveries, smashing five boundaries and six sixes at a strike rate of 224.24 to help PNG post a commanding 204/5 from 20 overs. 

PNG defeated the Cook Islands by 49 runs in another strong all-round performance at Korogi Sports Park.

Before departing Port Moresby (5 May) for the qualifiers in Japan, Ura said he was grateful for the opportunity to return to the national side and represent the country once again.

“I am excited about the matches ahead,” he said.