By Tim Douglas 
Apia, Samoa – Fiji secured a narrow 9-run victory over Cook Islands in the 11th match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup East Asia-Pacific Region Qualifier A at Faleata Oval No 2. The win, led by Peni Vuniwaqa’s all-round performance, keeps Fiji’s qualification hopes alive in the tournament.
After being put into bat by Cook Islands, Fiji managed to post 135/9 in their 20 overs. Peni Vuniwaqa top-scored for Fiji with a quickfire 45 off 28 balls, while Peni Kotoisuva provided a late boost with an unbeaten 28 off 17 deliveries. Cook Islands’ Cory Dickson was the standout bowler, claiming 3 wickets for 21 runs, while Liam Denny chipped in with 2 for 14.
In response, Cook Islands fell just short, finishing at 126/9 in their allotted 20 overs. Despite a fighting 57 off 39 balls from Aue Parima, Cook Islands couldn’t cross the line, thanks to a disciplined bowling effort from Fiji. Joeli Moala was the pick of the bowlers for Fiji with figures of 3/21, while Peni Dakainivanua supported well with 2/13. Peni Vuniwaqa also contributed with the ball, taking 2/31, earning him the Player of the Match award for his all-round display.
Key Records in the Match:
- Siteri Tabuisulu set a new record for most catches by a fielder in an innings (3) for Fiji in T20Is, surpassing Jone Wesele’s previous record of 2.
- Fiji’s 9-run victory against Cook Islands is their smallest margin of victory in T20Is, improving on their previous best of 22 runs against Samoa.
Brief Scores:
Fiji: 135/9 in 20 overs (Peni Vuniwaqa 45, Peni Kotoisuva 28*; Cory Dickson 3/21, Liam Denny 2/14)
Cook Islands: 126/9 in 20 overs (Aue Parima 57; Joeli Moala 3/21, Peni Dakainivanua 2/13)
Result: Fiji won by 9 runs.
Player of the Match: Peni Vuniwaqa (Fiji) – 45 (28) & 2/31.
Madhavam