In the ongoing ICC women’s T20I World Cup Global Qualifier, Vanuatu registered their maiden win in their first-ever qualifier appearance.
Vanuatu caused a sensation by surprising their Zimbabwean counterparts with a six-wicket victory during the fourth match on day 1 of global qualifier action.
The team etched their name in history as the first-ever representatives from Vanuatu, a nation with a population as modest as 300,000, to participate in a World Cup Qualifier. Ranked 30th, Vanuatu’s remarkable victory against Zimbabwe, who holds the 12th spot in the ICC T20I team rankings, is a significant milestone, particularly given their debut in the World Cup qualifying tournament.
In 2023, Vanuatu achieved a notable feat by hosting and winning the East Asia-Pacific regional qualifier in early September. Their impressive performance of 6 straight wins in the East Asia-Pacific regional qualifier highlights their potential as a strong opponent in the ongoing competition. Furthermore, they showcased their capability by securing third place in the Women’s T20 Pacific Cup in January 2024.
Despite facing defeats in both warm-up matches of the global qualifier, they demonstrated their mettle by securing their inaugural victory in the Qualifier tournament.
Vanuatu’s journey serves as a symbol of inspiration and determination. They put several social media posts regarding fund raisers’ requests, asking for support. Originally planning to travel to the UAE with borrowed equipment, their operations and marketing managers initiated a crowdfunding campaign with the message, “Donate towards their (Vanuatu) gear fund today at the VCA Offices (Korman) or through our GoFundMe page. Your generosity makes a difference!” This effort raised around 5,16,280 Indian Rupees enabling the players to acquire their own gear.
🎉 Incredible news! 🎉
Thanks to your generosity, the Holiday Inn Resort Vanuatu Women's team hit our gear fund goal of 750,000 Vatu! 🙌 With donations to VCA and GoFundMe, we're set for UAE! Thank you!🌟 pic.twitter.com/BUy4YARNpk
— Vanuatu Cricket (@vanuatu_cricket) April 18, 2024
Under the lights of Zayed Cricket Stadium, Zimbabwe’s skipper Mary-Anne Musonda won the toss and chose to bat first, however, Vanuatu’s bowlers dominated, dismissing Zimbabwe for 61 runs in 13.3 overs. Spinner Nasimana Navaika led the charge with four wickets for 13 runs, establishing her best bowling figures, while Vanessa Vira provided valuable support with three wickets for 14. All-rounder Rachel Andrew also made a notable contribution, taking two wickets for just 10 runs from her two overs.
Despite Zimbabwe’s bowlers delivering tight spells to defend their low score, Vanuatu’s batters remained composed. Despite losing four wickets, they comfortably reached their target with 21 balls to spare, securing the win with six wickets remaining. Audrey Mazvishaya emerged as Zimbabwe’s top bowler, securing two wickets for 10 runs in her four-over spell, including two maidens.
Navaika’s exceptional all-around performance earned her the Player of the Match award, showcasing her ability with both bat and ball. She not only excelled in bowling with figures of 4/13 but also contributed a steady 21 off 36 balls with three boundaries during the chase.