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Cricket PNG in turmoil as CEO is arrested and board addresses grievances

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The Cricket PNG (CPNG) Board is working to resolve grievances raised by staff and players at the end of 2024, according to The National. Chairman Michael Harrison shared that the board and management had been actively addressing these concerns, even during the holiday season.

“Despite meeting with staff and players twice after the petition was submitted, those involved have rejected the Board’s findings and continue to publicize baseless complaints,” said Harrison. He also expressed disappointment that some players turned to the media instead of engaging directly, which he claimed has damaged Cricket PNG’s reputation and made it harder to secure funding.

Harrison explained that Cricket PNG faced financial challenges in 2024, with reduced cash flow due to a drop in ICC funding. Annual ICC funding, determined by prior-year performance both internationally and domestically, was cut after the Barramundis lost their ODI status in 2023. Furthermore, two key sponsors reduced their contributions, citing broader economic difficulties, despite the hiring of a commercial manager.

The board has reviewed all financial transactions from 2024 and will submit the accounts to auditors this week. Despite delays in receiving ICC’s Quarter 4 payment, Cricket PNG continued to settle outstanding debts with suppliers, adhering to its obligations. The organization also submitted annual audits to the ICC, which were deemed complete and unqualified.

Funding shortfalls in 2024 included a reduction of over US$800,000 (K3.25 million) from the ICC. The Barramundis’ inability to retain ODI status impacted future funding until 2028, and a separate ICC decision saw the Lewas ODI status result in US$428,000 (K1.74 million) less than expected. However, Cricket PNG invested in sending the Lewas on two overseas ODI tours and expects to receive full funding of US$570,000 (K2.3 million) in 2025.

While senior cricket recovery was slow, junior hardball competition showed significant growth, expanding from fewer than 20 teams in 2022 to over 165 teams by 2023. Harrison noted that preparing national squads for international tournaments required overspending, including hiring two internationally experienced coaches based on anticipated revenue that did not materialize. He emphasized the need to improve on-field results to boost future funding.

Harrison also addressed accusations against CEO Richard Done, stating: “Some staff and players have targeted our CEO, Mr. Richard Done, with false and potentially defamatory claims. The Board investigated thoroughly and found no evidence of misconduct.” He commended Done’s contributions, highlighting his 40 years of cricket experience and unwavering dedication to Cricket PNG. The Board remains unanimous in its support of Done following the investigation.

Cricket PNG CEO Richard Done has been charged by NCD police for using insulting words towards terminated PNG Garamuts coach Jack Vare-Kevere on September 11, 2024, according to the Post Courier. Vare-Kevere filed a complaint, leading to Done’s brief detention at Boroko police station. He was charged under a Summary Offence and released after paying K300 bail.

Vare-Kevere explained he filed the complaint after Done insulted him in front of Cricket PNG staff in 2023. “It did not go down well with me and cast doubt on my job,” Vare-Kevere said. He also noted that his termination letter, signed by Cricket PNG Board Chairman Michael Harrison, did not provide a reason for his dismissal. Additionally, Cricket PNG’s physical performance manager Siyih Sohang was also terminated after raising concerns about players and staff.

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Name of Author: Cricexec Staff

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