Vanuatu recorded their first ever win against Japan on the back of a strong bowling performance from young spinner Nasimana Navaika (4/15).
After being sent in to bat first, the Japanese innings got off to a disastrous start with a mix-up on the first ball between the openers leading to Shizuka Miyaji being run out without facing a ball.
The Vanuatu bowlers then did the rest of the work along with a strong fielding effort that saw them bowl the more experienced Japan out for just 61.
Navaika then backed up her bowling performance with 15 not out to pick up the Player of the Match and a four wicket win for Vanuatu which she brought up with a big six down the ground.
The final matches of the first round being played tomorrow are Samoa versus Vanuatu in the morning followed by Japan and PNG in the afternoon.
The 2018 ICC Women’s World Twenty20 – East Asia-Pacific Qualifier 2017 is taking place in Sano, Japan from April 28 to May 5 and will feature teams from Japan, Papua New Guinea, Samoa and Vanuatu.
The top team will qualify for the 2018 ICC Women’s World Twenty20 Qualifier to be held in later 2017 or early 2018.
Summary of scores
Japan 61 (15.4) Navaika 4/15 (4) defeated by Vanuatu 6/65 (14.2) Langiatu 20, Navaika 15*, K Ishimoto 3/19 (4) by 4 wickets
Photo Cricket EAP - Facebook Vanuatu captain Selina Solman delighted at her team's wicket
