Samoa U19 Women’s Team Makes History with ICC T20 World Cup 2025 Qualification
The streets of Samoa echoed with joyous celebrations as their U19 women’s cricket team secured a historic spot in the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2025, following the conclusion of the East Asia Pacific Qualifier on Monday.
This marked the first time the Samoan team participated in an ICC qualifying event, and for many players, it was their first overseas trip. Despite these challenges, Samoa emerged victorious in five out of their six matches, topping the table ahead of Indonesia, PNG, and Fiji, and securing a place in the second edition of the event.
Key contributions came from the Batter of the Tournament, Verra Farane, who scored 196 runs, including a top score of 79 in the first round match against Fiji. The team’s excellent fielding and disciplined bowling, led by Silepea Polataivao, Masina Faimafili Loini Tafea, and team captain Avetia Fetu Mapu, helped Samoa restrict their opposition and defend their scores.
Avetia Fetu Mapu, Captain of Samoa
Mapu expressed her immense pride in the team’s achievement, stating, “This accomplishment not only brings attention to the sport within the country but also serves to inspire future generations of female cricketers in Samoa.”
She further added, “For the team and myself, this qualification represents a significant achievement and a platform to demonstrate our skills and dedication on an international stage. It is an opportunity to connect with people and learn from others.”
Mapu concluded, “Success, for me and my team, would be giving our best performance, leaving a positive impact, and perhaps even inspiring others along the way.”
Individual tournament awards were presented at the conclusion of the final match. Bowler of the Tournament and Player of the Tournament, Dika Lohia, showcased her skills with a classy 108 runs, 15 wickets, and four catches across the event. Verra Farane, Batter of the Tournament, scored her 196 runs at an average of 32.67 across the 6 matches, at a strike rate of 144.12, including 30 fours, and 5 sixes.
The tournament was a celebration of women’s cricket across the East Asia Pacific, as Indonesia, Papua New Guinea and Fiji gave it their all across the event. Despite not finishing on top of the table, each team was able to showcase remarkable talent at the junior level, which will no doubt translate to senior success in the future.
ICC Tournament Director, Emily O’Brien
O’Brien praised the teams, saying, “As the dust settles on the event, and Samoa emerge as champions, we celebrate not just the outcomes, but the journey of growth, camaraderie, and spirit that defined every match.”
She added, “From thrilling victories to hard-fought battles, each game showcased the resilience and determination of the best young female athletes from across the region. Congratulations to all the teams who participated, and a special salute to Samoa, who demonstrated exceptional skill and tenacity. We wish them all the very best for the World Cup.”
In an East Asia Pacific first, players from across all teams were recognised for their on-field performance as an 11-person Team of the Tournament was selected. Captained by Player of the Tournament, Dika Lohia of PNG, the team featured the players with the most runs and wickets across the 12 matches. Each player received a Kookaburra giftpack as a memento of their performance.
Team of the Tournament
Players were selected into the Team of the Tournament based on their individual performance.
Final Points Table:
Samoa – 6 matches, 5 wins, 10 points
Indonesia – 6 matches, 4 wins, 8 points
PNG – 6 matches, 3 wins, 6 points
Fiji – 6 matches, 0 points