sport, local-sport,

Fiji and Vanuatu are the teams to beat in the ICC World Cricket League Qualifier East Asia-Pacific in Bendigo. Fiji was stretched to the limit by Samoa in Monday’s second round, but passed the test with flying colours. Vanuatu is the only other unbeaten team after it scored an easy win over Philippines. In the final game on Monday, Indonesia opened its account with a strong win over Japan. Fiji’s run chase to defeat Samoa at Dower Park was the highlight of the day. Samoa had four players score more than 35 – Kaisala (46), Cotter (42), Maiava (37 not out), Alatasi (35) – as it posted an impressive 7-205 off 50 overs. Riyad Khan took 4-36 for Fiji, including three wickets in one over. In reply, Fiji looked in trouble when it stumbled to 4-61 in the 23rd over. However, a magnificent partnership between Ravoka and Tupou changed the game. The duo added 84 in 13 overs to swing the momentum back in Fiji’s favor. Ravoka fell for a well-made 58 off 79 balls, before Vuniwaqa (17) and Gauna (13 not out) helped Tupou steer the Fijians home. Tupou made 70 off 73 balls, including three fours and two sixes. Vanuatu overcame an early scare to thrash the Philippines by 121 runs at Canterbury Park. Vanuatu fell to 3-32 early on before Mansale (66), Langa (50) and Nipiko (45) rescued their side. Vanuatu’s 6-224 was always going to be a tough chase for Philippines. The game was basically done and dusted after 13 overs of the chase when Philippines slumped to 5-26. Hill (29) and Kumar (24) put some respectability on the scoreboard, but the Philippines were bowled out for 103. Matautaava (2-11 off nine overs) bowled superbly for Vanuatu. After being bowled out for 82 on day one, Indonesia bounced back to defeat Japan. Bhammar was the hero for Indonesia. The number three batsman made 71 off 102 balls to guide his side to 7-210. Japan had six players score in double figures, but no-one managed to turn a start into a big score. From a comfortable 2-78, Japan lost 8-78 to be bowled out for 156. Indonesia shared the wickets, with Rubbi taking 2-19 off eight overs. Tuesday is a rest day, with round three to be played on Wednesday. In Wednesday’s matches, Vanuatu plays Samoa at the QEO, Philippines tackles Indonesia at Strathfieldsaye and Japan plays Fiji at Weeroona Oval.

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