20 Sep 2012

Sport: Vanuatu and Japan qualify top for cricket semis

10:08 am on 20 September 2012

Vanuatu and Japan have topped their groups at the World Cricket League 8 tournament in Apia after ending the pool phase unbeaten.

Vanuatu managed 193 in their final pool match against Samoa on Wednesday before dismissing the hosts for 172 in the 39th over.

Japan maintained its perfect record after skittling Belgium for just 111 runs, ensuring an 83 run win.

In the other games, Suriname picked up its first win of the tournament against Bhutan and Ghana ensured Norway remain winless.

Vanuatu take on Belgium and Japan face Ghana on Thursday for a place in the final, with the other four teams to playoff for fifth spot.