The PNG Barramundis are aiming to turn months of preparation into a strong campaign at the ICC Cricket World Cup (CWC) Challenge League in Kenya from October 21 to 31, 2026.

Papua New Guinea sit third in Pool A and need a top two finish to strengthen their push towards the Cricket World Cup. The team will have five matches to improve their position, beginning against Jersey.

With the team ready to depart on Tuesday 13 October, PNG Hausbung spoke to the team’s head coach Tim McCaskill, who said the boys are focused.

“We’re really looking forward to the opportunity ahead. We’ve got five games to put into action what we’ve worked really hard on over the last few months,” McCaskill said.

He said the squad was fit, confident and clear about its roles, while acknowledging the challenge of climbing the standings.

“We know it’s a tough ask. We’re currently third. We need to try and get up into second place and, to do that, you’ve got to give yourself every chance to win every game. So that’s what we’re looking to do,” the coach said.

The opening match against Jersey will offer an early test. McCaskill said the Barramundis would prepare for each opponent with the same focus, treating every match as a demanding contest.

“Our aim is to look at the next game as the toughest game we’ve got in the tournament, and make sure we compete with that focus,” he said.

The squad includes three changes. Left-arm seamer Sema Kima returns to the programme, bringing swing-bowling options. Young all-rounder Dauncy Tom adds batting depth and another pace-bowling option, while wicketkeeper Doc O’Rupert has earned his opportunity after impressing in training over the past three months.

McCaskill said the team’s preparation had been built around a simple message: “Train hard and play easy.”

He also highlighted the performances of Tony Ura, Lega Siaka and Sese Bau in the recent Japan series, and said he hoped they could carry that form into the 50-over competition. Captain Assad will be tasked with managing the tempo of matches, both with the bat and through his bowling changes and field placements.

With a clear target and five crucial games ahead, McCaskill said the squad was eager to test itself.

“Everyone’s in a good place, everyone’s confident, everyone’s fit, everyone’s healthy. We’re really looking forward to seeing what they can do in this tournament,” the confident Coach concluded.