Full Name: John Kariko Date of Birth: March 11, 2004 Place of Birth: Papua New Guinea Role: Left-arm Orthodox Spinner | Right-handed Batsman When you talk about rising stars in Associate cricket, John Kariko sits right at the top of that list. Just 21 years old, Kariko has already established himself as Papua New Guinea’s most promising young spinner, earning the admiration of teammates, coaches, and fans alike. His maturity, calmness, and talent defy his age, and he represents the next generation of PNG cricketers determined to carry the national flag forward. Born on March 11, 2004, Kariko grew up in a cricket-loving environment in Port Moresby. He was introduced to the game by his family at a young age and quickly fell in love with the art of spin bowling. While others chased pace and power, Kariko found joy in subtlety and deception—the flight of the ball, the drift through the air, and the quiet thrill of a perfectly executed delivery. His natural ability and sharp cricketing mind set him apart early. John made his international debut for Papua New Guinea in 2021, just 17 years old, during a period when the national team was transitioning and looking to invest in youthful energy. It was a bold call, but one that paid off almost immediately. Kariko quickly showed his control, confidence, and composure on the big stage. He didn’t just bowl overs—he owned them. His performances during the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 were eye-catching. In particular, his spell of 3 for 19 against Nepal in 2023 was hailed as one of the finest by a PNG spinner in recent memory. He varied his pace, turned the ball sharply, and outfoxed set batsmen with subtle changes in trajectory. It was a display that underlined his potential to become a long-term match-winner for PNG. Despite his youth, Kariko already commands immense respect in the dressing room. His commitment to improvement is visible in the way he trains—always the first in the nets, working on flight, arm angles, and variations. He’s also a bright student of the game, often watching videos of spin legends like Daniel Vettori and Ravindra Jadeja, learning how to adapt his craft across formats and conditions. Off the field, John is humble, soft-spoken, and deeply connected to his community. He regularly volunteers with youth cricket programs, believing it’s his duty to give back and inspire others the way he was once inspired. His attitude, coupled with his talent, makes him one of the most well-rounded young athletes in PNG sport. In a team striving to grow stronger each year, John Kariko symbolizes a hopeful future—intelligent, fearless, and grounded. With the ball in hand, he brings not just spin, but soul to the game. And as he continues to grow, both as a cricketer and a young leader, there’s little doubt that Kariko will be at the heart of PNG cricket’s next great chapter.