Cook Islands started their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup East Asia-Pacific Region Qualifier A campaign with a resounding 9-wicket victory over Vanuatu at Faleata Oval No. 2, Apia. Hayden Dickson was the star of the match, delivering a sensational performance with an unbeaten 112 off 57 balls, setting multiple records in the process.
Match Report:
Vanuatu won the toss and elected to bat first, posting a competitive total of 180/5 in their 20 overs. Andrew Mansale was the top scorer for Vanuatu, hitting 64 off 40 balls, while Tim Cutler provided a late surge with 34* off 19 balls. Despite their efforts, Vanuatu struggled to break free from a disciplined Cook Islands bowling attack led by Milton Kavana (2/42) and Oscar Taylor (2/30).
In response, Cook Islands chased down the target with ease, reaching 186/1 in just 18.1 overs. Hayden Dickson played a blistering knock of 112* off 57 balls, including 10 fours and 7 sixes. His innings broke several records for Cook Islands, including the highest individual score in T20Is, most runs in boundaries (82), and most sixes (7) in an innings. Dickson was well supported by Thomas Parima, who scored 32 off 22 balls, and captain Ma’ara Ave, who remained unbeaten on 36 off 32 balls.
Key Moments:
- Hayden Dickson’s unbeaten 112* set multiple records for Cook Islands, including the highest individual score in T20Is for the team.
- Cook Islands chased down the target with 11 balls to spare, highlighting their dominance in the match.
- The match saw the highest aggregate score (366) involving Cook Islands and Vanuatu in T20Is.
Brief Scores:
Vanuatu: 180/5 in 20 overs (Andrew Mansale 64, Tim Cutler 34*; Milton Kavana 2/42, Oscar Taylor 2/30).
Cook Islands: 186/1 in 18.1 overs (Hayden Dickson 112*, Ma’ara Ave 36*; Joshua Rasu 1/31).
Player of the Match: Hayden Dickson for his record-breaking innings of 112* off 57 balls.
Cook Islands’ emphatic 9-wicket victory over Vanuatu in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup East Asia-Pacific Region Qualifier A was driven by Hayden Dickson’s incredible performance. With this win, Cook Islands secured two crucial points and sent a strong message to the other teams in the tournament. Vanuatu will need to regroup and address their bowling challenges as they move forward in the competition.
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