The clash between Papua New Guinea Women (PNG-W) and UAE Women (UAE-W) turned into a commanding display of discipline and confidence from the UAE side as they chased down 95 with ease, sealing the match by 8 wickets in just 15.2 overs. A composed batting effort led by Theertha Satish and a strong bowling performance highlighted UAE’s growing consistency in women’s cricket.
PNG-W Set a Modest Total of 94/5
PNG Women, after being asked to bat first, struggled to build momentum right from the start. Early wickets disturbed their rhythm:
Konio Oala fell for 2 (15)
Naoani Vare was dismissed early for 2 (4)
The innings was held together by captain Brenda Tau, who played a fighting knock of 53 off 55 balls, striking 7 boundaries. Her innings was crucial in giving PNG a competitive total as wickets kept falling at regular intervals.
Other notable contributions:
Henao Thomas – 11 (25)
Pauke Siaka – 15 (15)
Despite their efforts, PNG Women could only post 94/5 in 20 overs, finishing with a run rate of 4.7.
UAE’s Best Bowlers
| Bowler | Overs | Runs | Wickets | Econ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Samaira Dharnidharka | 4 | 17 | 2 | 4.20 |
| Michelle Botha | 4 | 18 | 2 | 4.50 |
| Suraksha Kotte | 4 | 9 | 1 | 2.20 |
UAE’s Best Bowlers
| Bowler | Overs | Runs | Wickets | Econ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Samaira Dharnidharka | 4 | 17 | 2 | 4.20 |
| Michelle Botha | 4 | 18 | 2 | 4.50 |
| Suraksha Kotte | 4 | 9 | 1 | 2.20 |
The trio applied consistent pressure, especially in the middle overs, which restricted PNG from posting a bigger total.
UAE Women’s Confident Chase Led by Theertha Satish
Chasing 95, UAE Women started positively, scoring 47 runs in the powerplay. Captain Esha Rohit Oza gave a brisk start with 14 off 13, hitting 3 boundaries before being trapped lbw by Henao Thomas.
The chase was then beautifully anchored by wicketkeeper-batter Theertha Satish, who remained unbeaten on 45 off 41 balls, steering the innings calmly and confidently.
Key Partnerships
Esha Oza – Theertha Satish: 16 runs
Rinitha Rajith – Theertha: 57-run stand
Michelle Botha – Theertha: Finished the chase with 22-run partnership
Other contributions:
Rinitha Rajith – 16 (28)
Michelle Botha – 13 (11)*
UAE Women completed the chase comfortably at 95/2 in 15.2 overs, sealing an 8-wicket victory with 28 balls to spare.
PNG’s Bowling Highlights
| Bowler | Overs | Runs | Wickets | Econ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Henao Thomas | 2 | 16 | 1 | 8.00 |
| Michelle Botha | 4 | 18 | – | 6.50 |
| Hane Tau | 4 | 18 | – | 4.50 |
The lack of breakthroughs during the middle overs allowed UAE to cruise comfortably.
Match Summary
Match Result: UAE Women won by 8 wickets
PNG-W: 94/5 (20 overs)
UAE-W: 95/2 (15.2 overs)
Player of the Match (likely): Theertha Satish for her unbeaten 45*
Final Thoughts
UAE Women showcased excellent balance in both batting and bowling, proving why they are emerging as a strong force in women’s cricket. PNG Women, despite a gritty knock from their captain Brenda Tau, couldn’t put enough runs on the board.
The match highlighted:
UAE’s solid top-order
Tight and disciplined bowling spells
PNG’s reliance on their captain for major scoring
UAE’s confidence and momentum will be vital as they move forward in upcoming fixtures.
