CAPTAIN of the Papua New Guinea Lewas, Brenda Tau, has hailed the PacificAus Sports Cricket Invitational as a powerful celebration of unity, culture, and women’s empowerment across the Pacific region.
Tau expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Australian Government, Cricket Australia, the Australian High Commission, PacificAus Sports, Cricket PNG, and the tournament organisers for their unwavering support in making the week-long event a success.
“On behalf of the PNG Lewas, I want to sincerely thank the Australian Government, Cricket Australia, the 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 extended appreciation to His Excellency Mr. Ewen McDonald, Australia’s High Commissioner and Special Envoy for the Pacific and Regional Affairs, for hosting the reception and championing women’s sport in the region.
Tau emphasized that the Invitational was “more than just cricket,” describing it as a platform for fostering connection, promoting cultural exchange, and building lasting bonds among Pacific nations.
“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 friendships,” she said.
The tournament featured teams from Australia Indigenous, Samoa, Vanuatu, and PNG, and was widely praised as a key initiative in promoting gender equality in sport and elevating the profile of women’s cricket in the Pacific.
Tau shared a personal highlight from the tournament — PNG Lewas’ victory over the Australian Indigenous team in their second-round encounter.
“That win is one I will always cherish in my cricket career. The Australian Indigenous team is strong, and after losing to them in the first round, we knew what we had to improve on. With the support of our coaches and trust in each other, we came back stronger — and won. It was all about teamwork, encouragement, and belief. I’m super proud of my teammates for that incredible performance.”
The Invitational also served as crucial preparation for the Lewas’ upcoming East Asia-Pacific Qualifiers, to be held in Fiji in September.
“This tournament gave us the opportunity to put our skills to the test and prepare for what’s ahead. It’s been especially encouraging to see our young talent step up and learn from experienced players. Competitions like this truly give us a boost.”
Tau concluded by thanking all participating teams for the spirit of competition and camaraderie: “To our sisters from Samoa, Vanuatu, and Australia — it’s been a joy to play, compete, and share this journey with you. May the friendships we’ve built last well beyond the final scorecard.”
“Taniku Badaherea, tenkyu tru, and thank you,” she said, expressing the PNG Lewas’ pride and gratitude.
The PacificAus Sports Cricket Invitational continues to shine as an initiative that promotes inclusive sporting opportunities and elevating women’s cricket throughout the Pacific.