By Anas Ahmed 
Samoa Stun PNG with Confident All-Round Performance
Samoa pulled off a significant upset in Group C of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Asia & EAP Qualifier 2025, defeating regional powerhouse Papua New Guinea (PNG) by six wickets at the Al Amarat Cricket Ground.
It was a complete team effort, headlined by a sublime knock from Sean Solia, whose composed 62 off 45 balls guided Samoa to a memorable chase under the lights.
PNG Falter After Bright Start
After opting to bat first, Papua New Guinea struggled to gain momentum, folding for 117 in 20 overs. Captain Assad Vala (38 off 38) played the anchor role, but regular wickets prevented any major partnerships.
Gaudi Toka (29 off 22) offered early resistance, yet PNG’s innings stumbled in the middle overs as Samoa’s bowlers applied constant pressure.
The standout was Solomon Nash, who delivered a superb spell of 4/24, dismantling PNG’s batting order. Darius Visser (2/19) and Caleb Jasmat (1/17) also chipped in effectively.
PNG’s total looked modest on a good surface, especially after a flurry of late wickets saw them lose six batters for just 26 runs in the final overs.
Solia Shines as Samoa Chase Comfortably
Chasing 118, Samoa got off to a steady start despite losing Darius Visser (14) early. From there, Sean Solia took command, combining elegance with aggression. He struck four fours and three sixes, pacing his innings perfectly to anchor the chase.
Benjamin Mailata (19 off 19) and skipper Caleb Jasmat (11 not out) provided crucial support, ensuring Samoa remained in control of the required rate.
Solia’s dismissal late in the innings didn’t deter the momentum, as Samoa reached 118/4 in 18.3 overs, sealing a historic six-wicket win.
PNG’s bowlers lacked penetration, with only Assad Vala (1/27), Damien Ravu (1/15), and John Kariko (1/7) managing breakthroughs.
Brief Scores
Papua New Guinea: 117 all out (Assad Vala 38, Gaudi Toka 29; Solomon Nash 4/24, Darius Visser 2/19)
Samoa: 118/4 in 18.3 overs (Sean Solia 62, Mailata 19; John Kariko 1/7, Assad Vala 1/27)
Result: Samoa won by 6 wickets (9 balls remaining)
Player of the Match: Sean Solia (Samoa)
Post-Match Reactions
Player of the Match Sean Solia said:
“It’s an incredible feeling. PNG are a tough side, so this win means a lot. I just wanted to stay till the end and take responsibility for the chase.”
Captain Caleb Jasmat praised the team’s composure:
“We stayed calm and executed our plans perfectly. The bowlers set it up beautifully, and Sean’s innings was world-class.”
FAQ: Samoa vs PNG T20 Qualifier 2025
Q: Who won the Samoa vs PNG match?
A: Samoa defeated Papua New Guinea by six wickets in Al Amarat.
Q: Who was the Player of the Match?
A: Sean Solia for his brilliant 62 off 45 balls.
Q: What was PNG’s total?
A: PNG were bowled out for 117 in 20 overs.
Q: How many overs did Samoa take to win?
A: Samoa chased down the target in 18.3 overs.
Q: Who took the most wickets for Samoa?
A: Solomon Nash, with an impressive 4/24.