APIA – Fiji secured a nail-biting 5-wicket win against Vanuatu in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup East Asia-Pacific Region Qualifier A at the Faleata Oval No 2. The match went down to the wire, with Fiji chasing down Vanuatu’s total of 168 with just one ball to spare.
Vanuatu, batting first, posted a competitive 168/6 in their 20 overs. Despite early setbacks, Joshua Rasu (43 off 28) and Junior Kaltapau (30 off 26) steadied the innings. Late fireworks from Williamsing Nalisa (31* off 15) helped Vanuatu set a challenging target. Fiji’s Joeli Moala was the pick of the bowlers, claiming 3/29.
In response, Fiji’s chase was guided by Peni Vuniwaqa (38 off 25) and Apete Sokovagone (46 off 37), who anchored the innings. Despite a mid-innings wobble, Peni Dakainivanua’s unbeaten 39 off 30 balls ensured Fiji crossed the line with one ball remaining, finishing at 169/5.
Brief Scores:
- Vanuatu: 168/6 in 20 overs (Joshua Rasu 43, Williamsing Nalisa 31*; Joeli Moala 3/29)
- Fiji: 169/5 in 19.5 overs (Apete Sokovagone 46, Peni Vuniwaqa 38; Joshua Rasu 2/25)
Result: Fiji won by 5 wickets (with 1 ball remaining).
Player of the Match: Peni Vuniwaqa (Fiji) – 38 runs off 25 balls and 1/15 in 2 overs.
