Full Name: Simpson Hopman Obed Date of Birth: September 17, 1989 Birthplace: Luganville, Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu Role: Right-Arm Medium Fast Bowler | Lower-Order Batter When Vanuatu cricket needed a steady hand with the ball, someone who could deliver under pressure without the flair but with all the heart—it turned to Simpson Obed. With jersey number 9, a cool demeanor, and an unmatched work ethic, Obed became one of Vanuatu’s most consistent and reliable bowlers over the years. Born in Luganville on the island of Espiritu Santo, Obed's early cricketing memories are tied to open fields, taped tennis balls, and hot afternoons spent bowling endlessly to friends. There was never anything flashy about him—but there was a quiet fire. Cricket wasn't a pastime; it was a purpose. From his teenage years, he worked relentlessly to turn that fire into control, accuracy, and movement. He rose through the domestic ranks and was soon recognized by the national selectors for his discipline and sharp cricketing mind. Making his debut in the early 2010s, Simpson didn’t take long to cement his place. He became a go-to bowler in both ODIs and T20Is, especially during crunch overs where calm execution mattered most. Obed isn’t the fastest bowler you’ll find—but he’s clever. His ability to read batters, adjust his lengths, and consistently bowl in the right areas made him a key threat. In the 2018 ICC World Cricket League Division Four, Simpson emerged as one of Vanuatu’s standout performers, taking 10 wickets in the tournament, including a 4-wicket haul against Bermuda that almost singlehandedly won Vanuatu the match. He has repeated that knack for clutch performances time and again. In East Asia-Pacific qualifiers, he has turned games around by breaking partnerships just when they seemed unbreakable. His best figures of 4/13 in T20Is came against Samoa, in a spell that demonstrated his full command over line, length, and variation. But Simpson’s contributions don’t end with the ball. As a lower-order batter, he has played important cameos—holding an end, rotating strike, or even swinging hard when required. Though not a frontline batter, he brings commitment and a team-first mindset that shows in the way he plays every role he's asked to. Beyond the pitch, Obed has been a mentor to younger players in the squad. His journey—built on self-discipline, humility, and quiet leadership—has inspired teammates and juniors alike. Younger bowlers, especially Apolinaire Stephen and Ruben Ravu, have often cited Simpson’s guidance as crucial in their development. Despite not chasing fame or fanfare, Simpson Obed has quietly compiled an impressive international resume, being one of the few Vanuatu players with over 25 T20I caps and a T20I bowling average under 20. He’s the kind of cricketer every team needs: dependable, unshakeable, and fiercely loyal to the badge. Now in his mid-30s, Simpson continues to be a vital cog in the Vanuatu cricket machine—mentally sharp, physically fit, and always ready. With jersey number 9, he remains the embodiment of understated excellence—a bowler who doesn’t just aim for the stumps, but for lasting impact.