PNG Lewas Captain Brenda Tau Hails PacificAus Sports Invitational as a Celebration of Unity Through Cricket

PORT MORESBY, PNG — Papua New Guinea Lewas captain Brenda Tau has described the PacificAus Sports Cricket Invitational as a powerful symbol of unity, culture, and empowerment for women across the Pacific.

Tau extended her gratitude to the Australian Government, Cricket Australia, the Australia High Commission, PacificAus Sports, Cricket PNG, and the organisers of the week-long tournament for their tireless support in making the tournament a success.

“On behalf of the PNG Lewas, I want to sincerely thank the Australian Government, Cricket Australia, Australian High Commission, PacificAus Sports, Cricket PNG, and all the wonderful organisers for making this tournament and today’s event so special,” Tau said.

She also acknowledged His Excellency Mr Ewen McDonald, Australia’s High Commissioner and Special Envoy for the Pacific and Regional Affairs, for hosting the reception and for his ongoing support of women’s sport across the region. Tau praised the Invitational as “more than just cricket”, highlighting the deeper impact it has made on building bridges across the Pacific. “We are proud to stand alongside our sisters from Samoa, Vanuatu, and the Australian Indigenous team, not just as athletes, but as ambassadors for women’s sport.

This Invitational is about connection, culture, and creating lasting bonds.” The tournament featured teams from across the Pacific; Australia Indigenous, Samoa and Vanuatu, showcasing both emerging talent and seasoned players, and was praised as a key initiative in promoting gender equality in sport. PNG Lewas' captain went ahead to share the best memories of the tournament. She said, "My best memory of the tournament was the game against the Australian indigenous which we won on the second round.

That was the best highlight for me In the tournament. I knew the Australia Indigenous had a really good and strong team and having to play the first game with the team and unfortunately losing the game, was a good learning point for the PNG Lewas. We knew as a team what we needed to work on, with our couches support and what we had to do to bounce back from the lose against them In the first round.

It was all about the team work and effort; we supported,encouraged and believed in each other that got us the win at the end. And it is one win, I will always cherish in my Cricket career.

We beat the Australia indigenous team and of course one of the strongest side in the tournament. At the end of it all, it was a great team performance out there and I am super proud of all my team mates." Tau said the experience on the field was invaluable for the Lewas as they prepare for upcoming international tournaments. “This gives us a great opportunity to put our skills into action and get ready for what’s ahead.

Our next tournament is the East Asia Pacific Qualifiers which will be held in Fiji on September. It is been wonderful to see our young talent take the field and learn from the experienced players. Competitions like this really give us that boost.” “To the other participating teams, it’s been a joy to play, compete, and share this journey with you. May the friendships we have made last much longer than the final scorecard.” “Taniku Badaherea, tenkyu tru, and thank you,” reflecting the pride and appreciation felt by the entire PNG Lewas team.

The PacificAus Sports Cricket Invitational continues to be recognised as a groundbreaking initiative in growing women’s cricket in the region and promoting inclusive sporting opportunities for Pacific nations.

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