MATCH REPORT

7 MARCH 2025– The fourth annual Australia Day Cricket Championship was played at Cove Resort last Thursday – bringing people together for an afternoon of sport and celebration.  With the President’s teams holding the cup for two of the previous three cricket championships, anticipations were high for this year’s match.

To the enjoyment of the crowd, and all those watching the livestream on EcoParadise FM, the game was filled with action from both teams as balls were hit over the Cove Resort, into palm trees and the pool. The pitch was slippery making it difficult to bat, however the fielders on both sides took several great catches and Team Australia’s bowling was second to none. The commentators added colour to the game with a final score of Australia 101 and Palau 72. Both teams played great cricket, with Team Australia winning the trophy for 2025.  For those yet to view, you can find the link shared on the Australian Embassy Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/AusEmbPalau/.

At the medal ceremony, Omdasu Ueki received a medal for the most runs (points) scored. The medal for most wickets taken was tightly contested with four players taking three wickets each. However, the medal for most wickets taken was awarded to Sarah Sugiyama who, for the first time in Palau – Australia cricket history, scored a hat-trick taking three wickets in a row.  Australian Ambassador Richelle Turner received the Most Valued Player medal as determined by Team Palau, and Omdasu Ueki received the Most Valued Player medal as determined by Team Australia.  President Whipps Jr and Ambassador Turner shared their reflections on the strength of the bilateral relationship, especially since the establishment of the Australian Embassy which has brought Australia and Palau closer together as we celebrate more than 30 years of relations.

Thank you to all the volunteers who supported this event, and congratulations to the cricket champions of 2025 – see you on the pitch in 2026!

For further information, please visit the embassy website at https://palau.embassy.gov.au/ or please contact the Australian Embassy, Palau on 488-4628 or koror.embassy@dfat.gov.au.

Facebook: @AusEmbPalau / Instagram: @AusEmbPW