Papua New Guinea's cricketers are just one win away from reaching the Men's Under 19 World Cup after thrashing Fiji by 210 runs to make it four wins from four at the East Asia Pacific Qualifiers in Apia.
The PNG Garamuts celebrate a wicket in their win over Fiji. Photo: Supplied / Jane Livesey - ICC East Asia Pacific
The Garamuts posted a challenging 264 for 9 batting first, with Igo Mahuru and Simon Atai putting on 53 for the opening wicket and Nou Reva Rarua blasting 59 not out from 47 balls, including two sixes.
Fiji's run-chase started badly with Rollie Marika dismissed without scoring with just the second ball of the innings.
Ovia Lohia Sam was named man of the match after finishing with the extraordinary figures of four wickets for just two runs from 2.3 overs as the Baby Blues were all out for just 54 in the 17th over.
Fiji's run chase did not last long. Photo: Supplied / Jane Livesey - ICC East Asia Pacific
PNG coach Kila Pala said it was their best performance of the tournament to date.
"We are really happy with how they have conducted themselves during the four days of the tournament," he said.
"It's not over for us yet as we still have two more games to win. The key is to go back to our routines in terms of what we have been doing right as individuals and as a team".
Vanuatu were in full control against Samoa. Photo: Supplied / Jane Livesey - ICC East Asia Pacific
Meanwhile Vanuatu made short work of Samoa, dismissing the hosts for 53 runs and cruising to their target inside 21 overs.
Obed Yosef earned player of the match honours with figures of 3 for 15 from 6 overs, while opener Junior Kaltapau steered Vanuatu to victory, top-scoring with 27 not out off 67 balls.
Play resumes today with Fiji up against Vanuatu while PNG face Samoa.
