Vanuatu Clinch 36-Run Victory Over Fiji in T20 World Cup Qualifier

Vanuatu registered a commanding 36-run win against Fiji in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup East Asia-Pacific Region Qualifier A at Faleata Oval No. 2. Andrew Mansale’s brilliant 82 off 50 balls guided Vanuatu to a competitive total, which their bowlers successfully defended, restricting Fiji to 121/9 in their 20 overs.

Match Report:

Fiji won the toss and opted to field first, but their decision backfired as Vanuatu posted a solid 157/4 in their allotted 20 overs. Andrew Mansale was the star with the bat, scoring a match-winning 82 from 50 balls, including several crucial partnerships. He was well-supported by Junior Kaltapau, who remained unbeaten on 31 off 32 balls. Fiji’s bowlers struggled to contain the Vanuatu batters, with Joeli Moala (1/16 in 4 overs) and Peni Kotoisuva (1/9 in 2 overs) providing the only bright spots.

In reply, Fiji faltered in their chase, managing only 121/9 in their 20 overs. Peni Vuniwaqa top-scored with 30 off 21 balls, while Josaia Cama added a quick 24 off 10 balls, but it wasn’t enough to chase down the target. Williamsing Nalisa was exceptional with the ball for Vanuatu, taking 6/16 in his 4 overs, ensuring Fiji never got close to the target. Nalin Nipiko also bowled economically, returning figures of 1/18 in his 4 overs.

Key Moments:

• Andrew Mansale’s Match-Winning Knock: Mansale’s 82 off 50 balls laid the foundation for Vanuatu’s total and ultimately proved to be the difference between the two teams.
• Williamsing Nalisa’s Bowling Brilliance: Nalisa’s 6-wicket haul for just 16 runs was instrumental in breaking the back of Fiji’s batting lineup, securing a comfortable win for Vanuatu.
• Record for Peni Vuniwaqa: Peni Vuniwaqa set a new record for most T20Is as captain for Fiji, surpassing Jone Wesele with his 6th match as skipper.

Brief Scores:

Vanuatu: 157/4 in 20 overs (Andrew Mansale 82, Junior Kaltapau 31*; Joeli Moala 1/16).

Fiji: 121/9 in 20 overs (Peni Vuniwaqa 30, Williamsing Nalisa 6/16).

Vanuatu’s all-round performance led by Andrew Mansale and Williamsing Nalisa secured a convincing 36-run victory over Fiji. The win strengthens Vanuatu’s position in the qualifier, while Fiji will need to regroup and improve in their remaining matches.