Papua New Guinea Clinch EAP Title as Vanuatu Finish Runners-Up

Port Vila, 15 September 2025 — Papua New Guinea (PNG) have been crowned champions of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup East Asia-Pacific Qualifier after defeating Vanuatu in the final, bringing an end to Vanuatu’s impressive unbeaten run in the tournament.

Batting first, Vanuatu set a competitive target, with skipper Rachel Andrew again leading the way. She smashed 45 off 26 balls, including seven fours and two sixes, and struck a rapid 19-run over off left-arm spinner Hane Tao. However, her dismissal by Isabel Tua stalled Vanuatu’s momentum, and wickets tumbled around her — Valenta Langiatu followed quickly after, adding little to the total. Teenager Susan Stephen offered some resistance with 23 off 20 balls, but Vanuatu was ultimately restricted to 113/9 in their 20 overs.

PNG’s chase was clinical. Opener Naomi Vare, named Player of the Final, remained unbeaten on 57 from 47 balls, while captain Brenda Tau steadied the innings with 39 not out. An unbroken partnership saw PNG home comfortably with nine wickets in hand and 29 balls to spare. Vanessa Vira claimed the only Vanuatu wicket, dismissing Koneo Oala for 7.

Despite the final loss, Vanuatu’s campaign was one of strength and consistency. Key individual performances throughout the qualifiers elevated the team’s profile in the region.

PNG now progress to the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier in Nepal in early 2026. Vanuatu, meanwhile, look forward to participating in the newly established ICC Women’s Challenge Trophy in 2026.