Apia, August 21, 2024: Samoa continued their impressive run in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup East Asia-Pacific Region Qualifier A, securing a commanding 73-run victory over Fiji at Faleata Oval No 2. Darius Visser starred for Samoa with both bat and ball, earning the Player of the Match award for his all-round brilliance.
Match Report:
In a match where no toss was needed, Samoa took the initiative to bat first and posted a formidable total of 183/5 in their 20 overs. Darius Visser led the charge with a scintillating 72 off 39 balls, supported by Darren Roache’s 29 off 21. Fiji’s bowlers struggled to contain the onslaught, with Peni Kotoisuva (2/25) and Sunia Yalimaiwai (2/35) being the pick of the bowlers.
Fiji’s chase never gained momentum, as they were bowled out for 110 in just 15.3 overs. Peni Vuniwaqa top-scored with 39 off 23 balls, but the rest of the batting lineup faltered against Samoa’s bowling attack. Saumani Tiai was the standout bowler, claiming 5/27, while Darius Visser chipped in with 3/31 to cap off a superb all-round performance.
Key Performances:
- Darius Visser’s All-Round Show: Visser’s 72 runs with the bat and 3 wickets with the ball were instrumental in Samoa’s dominant win.
- Saumani Tiai’s Fiery Spell: Tiai’s 5/27 dismantled Fiji’s batting lineup and ensured a comfortable win for Samoa.
Records and Milestones:
- Darius Visser – Samoa’s Top Scorer in T20Is: With his 72-run innings, Visser became the leading run-scorer for Samoa in T20Is, surpassing Dom Michael’s previous record of 250 runs.
Brief Scores:
Samoa: 183/5 in 20 overs (Darius Visser 72, Darren Roache 29, Peni Kotoisuva 2/25)
Fiji: 110 in 15.3 overs (Peni Vuniwaqa 39, Saumani Tiai 5/27, Darius Visser 3/31)
Result: Samoa won by 73 runs
Player of the Match: Darius Visser for his all-round performance.
This victory solidifies Samoa’s position as a strong contender in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup East Asia-Pacific Region Qualifier A. Darius Visser’s exceptional all-round performance continues to highlight his importance to the team, as Samoa looks to maintain their winning momentum in the tournament.
