Vanuatu defeat Indonesia in first match of T20 World Cup Qualifier

In a breathtaking encounter at Suva's Albert Park, Vanuatu secured a dramatic 7-run victory over Indonesia, ranked 13 places higher at number 20 in the world, in both teams' first match of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup East Asia-Pacific Qualifier.

Vanuatu celebrates a triumphant victory at the ICC Women's T20 World Cup East Asia-Pacific Qualifier.

After being sent in to bat, Vanuatu posted a competitive total of 131/2 in their 20 overs, powered by an inspirational knock from captain Rachel Andrew who carried her bat to collect 85 not out from 71 balls.

Captain Rachel Andrew delivers an all-round masterclass, earning Player of the Match with a stunning bowling performance of 3/10, including a hat-trick, and scoring a commanding 85* off 71 balls to lead Vanuatu to victory over Indonesia in the ICC Women's T20 World Cup EAP Qualifier.

In response, Indonesia was restricted to 124 for 8 across their 20 overs, falling just short of the target.

After starring with the bat, it was Andrew who came on to bowl the 19th over, with Indonesia needing 16 runs to win.

What followed was not only match defining but also record breaking, a rare triple-wicket maiden, with the fast bowler taking a hat trick.

With no runs scored from that over, the match was practically over as Selina Solman close the game out, bowling the final.

Collecting the player of the match award, Andrew credited the team’s hard work and preparation. “I think the quality players, the skills and talent that we have, and training hard, all the hard work that we’ve put in - we came up with a good result,” she said. “It was also a good game between Indonesia. We were just trying to stick to the plan and execute it well.”

Reflecting on her own performance, Andrew added: “I had a season in Darwin, just upskilling myself and improving. I guess that’s the result I got today, because of the hard work and training I’ve put in.” Andrew was player of the match in Southern Districts' victorious frand final last Friday

Next Match: Up next, Vanuatu will square off against the Cook Islands in another crucial fixture of the qualifier.

Vanuatu fans are encouraged to tune in and support the team as they chase their path to the Global Qualifier for the 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup.

Stream via: ICC.tv