Samoa confirmed their place at the ICC Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2027 after an unbeaten run in the East Asia-Pacific Qualifier in Port Moresby, securing back-to-back appearances at the global event. Led by Olive Lefaga Lemoe, the side once again underlined their growing stature in the region with a clinical four-match campaign. Playing at Amini Park, Samoa won all four of their matches against Vanuatu, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, and Fiji, replicating their 2024 qualification success in style.
Their campaign began with a commanding 58-run victory over Vanuatu. Samoa set the tone early, putting up a competitive total before their bowlers took over, restricting Vanuatu comfortably. The all-round effort highlighted their depth, with both batting and bowling units contributing to a convincing opening win. Samoa followed that up with another dominant performance, defeating Indonesia by 53 runs. Once again, their ability to post a defendable total and back it up with disciplined bowling stood out. The bowlers maintained control throughout the innings, ensuring Indonesia never threatened the target.
The third match against hosts Papua New Guinea (PNG) proved to be their toughest test. Samoa were bundled out for just 58, putting them under significant pressure. However, what followed was one of the standout performances of the tournament. Hardiya Padda (4/9) and Telesia Vaoala Gabriel (4/7) delivered a sensational bowling display, skittling Papua New Guinea for just 48. The dramatic turnaround showcased Samoa’s resilience and their ability to fight back even when the odds were against them.
Heading into the final match against Fiji Under-19 women’s cricket team, Samoa needed a win to seal qualification—and they delivered emphatically. Batting first, they posted 130, anchored by a superb unbeaten 67 off 62 balls from Avetia Mapu, who had also captained the side at the previous U19 World Cup. Her innings provided the backbone of the total and ensured Samoa had something substantial to defend.
With the ball, Samoa were once again clinical. Fiji were restricted to just 72, handing Samoa a comfortable win and confirming their qualification. Telesia Vaoala Gabriel continued her excellent form, finishing with 4/19, while Padda chipped in with 2/9, capping off a tournament where the bowling unit consistently delivered under pressure.
Across the four matches, Samoa’s success was built on a balanced team effort. Their batting unit showed the ability to post competitive totals, while their bowlers repeatedly stepped up whether defending strong scores or rescuing low ones. The performances of players like Mapu, Padda, and Vaoala Gabriel were particularly instrumental in their unbeaten run.
Having now qualified for a second consecutive U19 Women’s T20 World Cup, Samoa have firmly established themselves as a rising force in the East Asia-Pacific region. Their ability to handle expectations, entering this qualifier as favourites and still deliver dominant performances speaks volumes about the team’s growth and maturity.
As they look ahead to the 2027 tournament, Samoa will carry not just momentum but also valuable experience from both qualification campaigns. If this run is any indication, they will arrive at the global stage not just as participants, but as a team capable of making a genuine impact.
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