The 4-match ODI series between Papua New Guinea (PNG) Women and United Arab Emirates (UAE) Women has delivered memorable performances and dramatic swings through the first three matches, offering compelling viewing for fans of emerging cricket nations.
UAE Women took an early lead by securing the opening game with a clinical five-wicket win, chasing down PNG’s total after disciplined bowling and steady batting. The second ODI saw PNG stage a strong comeback, clinching a tense three-wicket victory thanks to their bowlers holding UAE to a manageable target and middle-order contributions during the chase.
The third ODI wasn’t short of drama, as UAE outplayed PNG, winning by a massive margin of 160 runs after posting 193/7 and then skittling PNG out for just 33, with Samaira Dharnidharka claiming four wickets and Player of the Match honors. The series now sits at 2-1 in favor of UAE as both sides gear up for the deciding fourth fixture, scheduled for 19th of October 2025, at Amini Park, Port Moresby, starting 5:00 AM Indian Standard Time (IST).
Squads:
Papua New Guinea Women’s Cricket Team
Konio Oala, Lakshmi Rajadurai, Melanie Ani, Naoani Vare, Henao Thomas, Hollan Doriga, Pauke Siaka, Brenda Tau, Dika Lohia, Erani Pokana, Geua Tom, Hane Tau, Isabel Toua, Mairi Tom
United Arab Emirates Women’s Cricket Team
Esha Oza, Al Maseera Jahangir, Emily Thomas, Indhuja Nandakumar, Katie Thompson, Lavanya Keny, Mehak Thakur, Michelle Botha, Rinitha Rajith, Samaira Dharnidharka, Siya Gokhale, Sashikala Silva, Suraksha Kotte, Theertha Satish, Udeni Kuruppuarachchige, Vaishnave Mahesh
Players to watch out:
Lakshmi Rajadurai
Lakshmi Rajadurai has scored 85 runs in 3 innings at an average of 28.33, emerging as the top run-getter for PNG Women so far. Her steady contributions have anchored the batting lineup in the series. She continues to show resilience at the crease despite challenging bowling attacks. Rajadurai’s consistency will be crucial for PNG’s prospects in their upcoming games.
Pauke Siaka
Pauke Siaka has taken 8 wickets from 3 innings for PNG Women at an average of 8.62, standing out as a key strike bowler with her right-arm medium pace. Her knack for picking wickets at critical junctures has been a highlight for PNG. Siaka’s ability to create pressure through accurate spells has turned matches in PNG’s favor. The team will depend on her experience and skill to contain strong batting sides ahead.
Udeni Dona
Udeni Dona has made 67 runs from 2 innings at a strong average of 33.50, providing crucial runs for UAE Women in the middle order. Her ability to rotate the strike keeps the team’s momentum going during partnerships. Dona’s reliability has helped UAE solidify their batting in quick chases. As the series progresses, her batting form remains valuable for UAE’s campaign.
Michelle Botha
Michelle Botha leads the wicket tally with 9 scalps in 3 matches at an outstanding average of 5.33, consistently delivering breakthroughs for UAE Women. Her left-arm spin has troubled opposition batters throughout the series. Botha’s disciplined line and variations make her a trump card for UAE in the middle overs.
Pitch:
The pitch at Amini Park in Port Moresby is known for producing moderately balanced playing conditions, featuring a firm surface that offers good bounce for fast bowlers but also enables batters to play their strokes confidently once settled and spinners tend to enter the contest as the match wears on.
Weather:
The weather is forecasted to be humid with a chance of a shower or two in the afternoon. Expect warm conditions, making it slightly challenging for cricket with possible interruptions due to brief rain spells.
Fantasy Playing XI:
Naoani Vare, Henao Thomas, Lakshmi Rajadurai, Pauke Siaka, Brenda Tau, Esha Oza, Al Lavanya Keny, Michelle Botha, Suraksha Kotte, Theertha Satish, Udeni Dona
Match Details:
Date – October 19, 2025
Time – 5:00 AM IST
Venue – Amini Park, Port Moresby
Broadcast – T.B.C.
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