The Holiday Inn Resort Vanuatu National Women’s Cricket Team continued their strong run in the Pacific France Women’s Championship, securing a 38-run victory over Fiji in their final group match on Wednesday in Noumea.
Batting first, Vanuatu put up a steady 121/3 in their 20 overs. Star all-rounder Nasimana Navaika (33) and Valenta Langiatu (12) laid a solid foundation during the powerplay before captain Selina Solman carried her fine form forward with an unbeaten 41 off 43 balls.
After three matches in as many days, following a gruelling travel ordeal over the weekend, the trio battled through their fatigue, pushing through the obvious pain being experienced in warm conditions.
Fiji’s chase never gained momentum, with Vicky Mansale (2/15) and Solman (2/20) leading a disciplined bowling attack. Rachel Andrew and Vanessa Vira also picked up wickets as Fiji managed 83/6, falling short of the target.
After 11 not out with the bat, Susan Stephen, younger sister of Vanuatu men’s stalwart Apolinaire Stephen, impressed with her natural skill behind the stumps, taking the gloves for the first time for her country standing in for injured wicketkeeper Mahina Tarimiala.
Looking toward the final on Friday, VCA High Performance Manger Manager Chris Laffan said: “‘We’ve had 3 strong outings and improved our output along the way. Samoa are an improved outfit who did the basics better than us in game one. We’ve been working hard on and of the field to get those right as we head into the final”
Earlier in the day, Naitha Simelum was hand playing cap number 107, after being selected to make her national team debut.
Vanuatu will face off against Samoa in the tournament final on Friday at 1.30pm with broadcast details to be released shortly.
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