Ono-i-Lau showcased impressive fielding and formidable bowling, leading to their victory over Lakeba A in the semi-finals of the Lau Cricket competition held in Tubou, Lautoka. In this exciting limited-overs match, Ono scored a total of 122 runs while restricting Lakeba to 103 runs.

Mesake Cama emerged as the top performer for Ono, contributing 41 runs to the tally. Other notable contributions came from Asaeli Bale with 25 runs, Taitusi Tuityawa at 18, and Jeremaia Veiseyaki with 14 runs. Lakeba’s highest scorer was Alisaya Lutukiwai, who managed 31 runs, with Viliame Tuinaceva and Josetaki Nopoci adding 12 and 10 runs, respectively.

This victory has secured Ono a spot in the finals, where they will compete against the victor of the Komo-Lakeba C match, whose results were unavailable at the time of reporting. Lakeba, who had dominated the Lau competition since 1985, faced an unexpected early exit, much to the delight of Ono. This win is significant not only for the team but also reflects the revitalization of cricket on the island, which had taken a backseat during the 1960s and early 1970s due to the popularity of rugby.

Since the early 1980s, however, cricket has regained prominence, with Ono clinching the Crompton Cup in 1984. The island’s sports organizers have focused on youth cricket development, and this notable win over long-time champions Lakeba highlights the effectiveness of their efforts.

In conjunction with the cricket competition, the island recently celebrated the 70th birthday of Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara, culminating a week of festivities. Sports finales were also held during the celebrations, leading to the announcement of the Lau provincial team for the upcoming Island Zone rugby championship in Suva this August.

With guests departing the island, the atmosphere remains one of celebration and camaraderie, reinforcing the community spirit that prevails in Ono.

This victory not only marks a significant achievement for Ono cricket but may also inspire the next generation of players to continue elevating the sport’s presence in the region.