Papua New Guinea cricket coach Dipak Patel was full of praise for his team after they defended their South Australian Premier League T20 title in dramatic fashion.
The Barramundi's beat the Southern Force by one wicket in Saturday's final, reaching their target of 121 with three balls to spare, with only fast bowlers Norman Vanua and Willie Gavera left at the crease.
It was their second match of the day, having beaten Northern Territory in the semi finals that morning.
Dipak Patel says coming at the end of a gruelling schedule his players showed great fortitude when it mattered.
"We did it against all odds. It's been a very hectic and pretty long period of cricket for the guys, being away from home, and the fact that we had to play two games back to back as well yesterday in probably 30-plus [degrees] heat - and we only had half an hour between the games. We did it the hard way but yet the boys performed outstandingly, to be honest with you".
Dipak Patel says the players have made huge strides in the last few months and have earned some time off with their families over the Christmas and New Year period, with no international fixtures confirmed until July next year.
Papua New Guinea celebrate defending their South Australian Premier League Twenty20 title. Photo: Cricket PNG
