Independence Park Crowned Port Vila District Cricket Champions

PORT VILA – Independence Park Cricket Club capped off an impressive campaign by claiming the 2026 Port Vila District Cricket Championship title with a convincing seven-wicket victory over Seaside Cricket Club in the tournament final.

After restricting Seaside to 104 all out in 17.3 overs, Independence Park comfortably chased down the target in just 13.1 overs to secure the championship in dominant fashion.

All-rounder Steffan Sandy delivered one of the standout performances of the tournament, leading the attack with figures of 3 for 20 before returning with the bat to blast an unbeaten 37 from only 18 deliveries. His match-winning innings, combined with a composed unbeaten 36 from opener Sebastien Banga, ensured Independence Park completed the chase with more than six overs to spare.

Seaside's innings was held together by Julien Tommy, who top-scored with 42, but regular wickets prevented the side from building a competitive total. Independence Park's disciplined bowling unit shared the workload, with Isaac Jeffery and Steward Sandy each claiming two wickets to support Steffan Sandy's outstanding spell.

Earlier, Fres Wota 4 Cricket Club secured third place after an emphatic 117-run victory over Fres Wota 5 Cricket Club.

Batting first, Fres Wota 4 posted a formidable 185 for 5, built around a superb 63 from William Laumai and a powerful 51 from Andrew Wilson. The pair laid the foundation for a commanding total before the bowlers completed the job.

Kenny Moruk starred with the ball, producing exceptional figures of 5 for 19 as Fres Wota 5 were dismissed for just 68 in 11.2 overs. Andrew Wilson also impressed with three wickets to complete an outstanding all-round performance.

The championship concluded with an official prize presentation ceremony attended by community leaders and cricket officials. Councilor Moris Timas presented the championship trophy to Independence Park Cricket Club, while the representative of Councilor Alfred presented the runners-up awards to Seaside Cricket Club. Councilor Jennifer Kausei presented the third-place awards to Fres Wota 4 Cricket Club, and Vanessa Sandy presented the fourth-place awards to Fres Wota 5 Cricket Club.

Individual excellence was also recognised, with Joshua Rasu presenting the Batter of the Tournament award, Darren Wotu presenting the Bowler of the Tournament award, and Kerrod Loughman presenting the tournament's Most Valuable Player (MVP) award to Hildon Tari Ulu for his outstanding performances throughout the competition.

The championship once again showcased the growing standard of district cricket in Port Vila, with competitive matches, emerging talent and strong community support highlighting the success of the tournament. Organizers thanked the participating clubs, match officials, volunteers, sponsors and supporters for their contribution to another successful edition of the Port Vila District Cricket Championship.