Womajo Wotu masterclass in Australia after travel saga

There are good innings, there are special innings, and then there are stories you remember. Womajo Wotu’s unbeaten 152 in Melbourne on Sunday belongs in the last category.

The 21-year-old flew out of Port Vila on Saturday after his visa was finalised late last week, thanks to the support of the Australian High Commission. He travelled to join Doutta Stars Cricket Club in Victoria as part of Vanuatu Cricket’s overseas development pathway.

Womajo Wotu smashes an impressive 152* off 76 balls, featuring 7 fours and 16 sixes, with a strike rate of 200.00, leading Doutta Stars Cricket Club to victory against Sunshine Druids.

Nothing about his arrival was smooth. A flight delay caused him to miss his connection in Brisbane, and Wotu chose to remain inside the terminal overnight rather than risk missing his morning flight. He arrived in Melbourne early Sunday morning, where he was collected by club officials along with fellow Vanuatu national player Williamsing Nalisa, who also plays for the club.

There was no recovery time. No warm bed. No team training. Just a fast drive from the airport, a quick drop of his bags and straight into the match against Strathmore. He was selected to bat at number seven. What happened next silenced any nerves. He struck 152 not out from 76 deliveries. He hit 16 fours. He launched 9 sixes. He barely looked tired.

The innings were a powerful reminder that talent can come from anywhere and opportunity means everything. Wotu will now continue his season in Melbourne before returning to national duties with Vanuatu Cricket, with tournaments slated for January and May for the national men’s team.