Ono-i-Lau showcased impressive skill in both fielding and bowling, securing a victory over Lakeba A in the semi-final of the Lau Cricket competition held in Tubou, Lautoka. The match, as reported in a 1990 article by The Fiji Times, ended with Ono scoring 122 runs, defeating Lakeba, who managed 103 runs.
Leading the charge for Ono was Mesake Cama, who scored 41 runs, while other notable contributions came from Asaeli Bale with 25 runs, Taitusi Tuityawa with 18 runs, and Jeremaia Veiseyaki, who added 14 runs. For Lakeba, Alisaya Lutukiwai was the standout performer with 31 runs, and other contributors included Viliame Tuinaceva with 12 runs and Josetaki Nopoci with 10 runs.
This victory has granted Ono a place in the finals, where they will face the winner of the Komo-Lakeba C match, the outcome of which remains undisclosed at this time. Lakeba, who had dominated the Lau competition since 1985, faced an unexpected setback in this semi-final.
The past few decades have seen a resurgence of cricket in Ono. After being overshadowed by rugby in the ’60s and early ’70s, cricket made a comeback in the early ’80s. The highlight came in 1984 when Ono secured the Crompton Cup in Lautoka. Following this, local sports organizers have focused on nurturing youth cricket, and this victory over seasoned champions Lakeba is a testament to their effective strategy.
Coinciding with this sporting achievement, the island recently celebrated the 70th birthday of Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara, culminating in a week of festivities. As the events wrapped up, the island prepared to announce its provincial team for the upcoming Island Zone rugby championship in Suva this August, with guests departing by midnight.
This triumphant win for Ono-i-Lau not only highlights their cricketing prowess but also symbolizes a broader revitalization of community engagement and youth involvement in sports, fostering hope for future successes and a strong sporting culture on the island.
Leave a comment