PAPUA New Guinea is embracing more legacies in the sport of Cricket as 16-year-old Vagi Morea makes his third international appearance for the PNG U19 Garamuts.

Morea who hails from Hanuabada, Central was recently named in the Garamuts 14-man squad ahead of the East-Asia Pacific Qualifier for the 2026 ICC T20 U19 World Cup against Japan and Fiji.

“I started playing cricket when I was just 5 years old, Amini Park was one of those places I got to spend more time at growing up.

“Part of the reason being my family are really involved in this sport.”

The name ‘Morea’ is not new to the cricket scene as Vagi follows in the footsteps of his dad Vani Morea, a former PNG Barramundi cricketer who retired in 2018 following the passing of his late wife (Vagi’s Mum).

He is also nephew to current Barramundi player Kabua Vagi Morea.

“My dad and my uncle are my motivation even despite losing mum at an early age. They encouraged me to keep finding my passion in this sport, finally I am here achieving a goal and that is to represent my country.”

As a second oldest of four siblings, Morea said he was overjoyed when told he was in the 14-man squad off to Japan.

“My dad has always supported me and my siblings and when I told them this news, they were overjoyed and proud of my achievement.”

“This will be my third international tour with the Garamuts, the first was during the Division 2 Qualifiers in Samoa last year, this year in Brisbane, Australia and now Japan.”

“I am grateful for this opportunity and look forward to give my best for PNG.”

Like his dad, Vagi plays as a Right-Handed Batsman and a top-order batter for the Garamuts.

Additionally, Vagi’s dad (Vani) who currently works an experienced cricket grounds man for Cricket PNG after his retirement as a professional cricketer.

“Seeing my son come this far is an achievement and I know his late mum would’ve been so proud of him.”

“As former PNG (Barras) cricketer, this is a start of many more opportunities to come. He is loved and supported by his family carrying our family name to compete in this World Cup Qualifier and we wish him all the best.”

Meanwhile the PNG Garamuts bat-off their first T20 fixture against home team Japan at the Sano International Cricket Ground tomorrow at 11am PNG time.