Thailand sealed a comfortable seven wicket win over Papua New Guinea in the sixth match of the Women’s T20 Quadrangular Series, demonstrating smart bowling and cool-headed batting on a competitive surface.
The game kicked off with PNG opting to bat after winning the toss, a decision that initially looked promising as their opener Naoani Vare anchored the innings with an impressive unbeaten 55 off 55 balls. While runs were hard to come by for her teammates, Vare’s ability to hold the fort made the difference, especially as wickets fell at regular intervals with Konio Oala, Henao Thomas and Miria Raio departing cheaply.
PNG fought to set a target, with Pauke Siaka providing a late boost by smashing 29 runs from 23 balls in a brisk cameo, but Thailand’s bowlers kept cool under pressure. Phannita Maya stood out with two wickets for 29 runs, and Sueleporn Laomi bowled an economical four over spell conceding just 16 and taking 1 wicket, choking PNG’s scoring rate in the crucial middle overs. Even the death overs saw PNG captain Brenda Tau come in, finishing with an unbeaten 9 off 4, but the final tally of 109/4 from 20 overs seemed under par for the conditions.
Thailand’s chase was marked by mature batting and clear intent. Losing Chanida Sutthiruang early gave PNG a glimmer of hope, but Thailand steadied through Nattaya Boochatham’s patient 13 and then turned the game decisively with solid partnerships. The real star was Natthakan Chantham, who remained unbeaten on 45 from 38 balls including 5 boundaries, playing around risk and reward as she brought her side closer to victory.
Nannapat Koncharoenkai matched Chantham’s temperament, adding a valuable 27, and their composed approach prevented PNG bowlers from grabbing quick breakthroughs. On the bowling front, PNG’s Pauke Siaka and Isabel Toua did produce disciplined spells, grabbing a wicket each and giving away only 10 runs and 16 runs from their respective overs.
Thailand’s batters managed the chase perfectly, knocking off the runs with calm singles and timely boundaries. Captain Naruemol Chaiwai’s short but efficient cameo towards the finish line ensured the side crossed the target in 19 overs.
The match had its share of turning points: Vare’s lone fighting innings for PNG and the partnership between Chantham and Koncharoenkai for Thailand stood out. PNG’s inability to maintain momentum after good starts with both bat and ball ultimately led to their defeat.
Thailand’s mature performance under pressure reinforced their reputation in the tournament, combining tight fielding with shrewd strategies. As the dust settled, Thailand walked away with a deserved win, riding high on teamwork and a couple of standout individuals.
Loves all things female cricket