Fiji’s women’s cricket team started the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup East Asia–Pacific Qualifier, hosted at Albert Park in Suva, on a high note with a nine-wicket victory over the Cook Islands yesterday.
The Cook Islands managed 114 for six in their 20 overs, with Ilisapeci Waqavakatoga leading Fiji’s bowling attack, capturing two wickets for just 10 runs, joined by timely breakthroughs from Mele Waqanisau, Jasvil Rokoro, and Serafina Tubakibau.
In response, Fiji’s chase was smooth.
Captain Semaema Lomani anchored the innings with 43 off 49 balls, while Sulia Vuni’s composed 44 off 44 balls earned her the Player of the Match honours.
Silivia Kijiana provided valuable finishing touches, remaining unbeaten on 15 off 12 balls as Fiji reached 115 for 1 in 17.2 overs, sealing the win with 16 balls to spare.
The tournament features eight nations across two groups, with Group B (featuring Fiji) including Cook Islands, Indonesia, and Vanuatu.
Their final group-stage game pits them against Vanuatu on Friday.
Only the tournament winner will advance to the Global Qualifier for a shot at reaching the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.
In other results from yesterday, Vanuatu beat Indonesia by seven runs, Samoa hammered Philippines by nine wickets while Papua New Guinea had a convincing 45 run victory over Japan.
