In the second match of the T20 World Cup 2024, Papua New Guinea (PNG) posted a target of 137 runs against the West Indies at Guyana's Providence Stadium.
The West Indies' bowlers dominated the early proceedings, taking wickets at regular intervals and preventing PNG from gaining any substantial momentum.
The only notable partnership for PNG came from Sese Bau and Charles Amini, who added 44 runs for the fifth wicket. Bau emerged as the standout performer, scoring a commendable 50 off 43 balls, which included a six and six fours. Skipper Assad Vala contributed 21 runs off 22 balls, hitting two fours and a six, while Kiplin Doriga provided crucial runs towards the end with an unbeaten 27.
Andre Russell led the bowling attack for the West Indies with impressive figures of 2/19. Alzarri Joseph also made significant inroads, taking 2/34. Akeal Hosein, Romario Shepherd, and Gudakesh Motie chipped in with a wicket each, ensuring PNG was restricted to 136/8 in their allotted 20 overs.
Winning the toss and opting to bowl first, West Indies captain Rovman Powell cited the inclement weather and a fresh wicket as the reasons for his decision. "With the inclement weather around and on a fresh wicket, it's right for us to have a bowl," Powell stated.
Playing XIs:
West Indies: Johnson Charles, Brandon King, Nicholas Pooran (wk), Roston Chase, Rovman Powell (capt), Sherfane Rutherford, Andre Russell, Romario Shepherd, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Gudakesh Motie
PNG: Tony Ura, Assad Vala (capt), Sese Bau, Hiri Hiri, Charles Amini, Kiplin Doriga, Alei Nao, Chad Soper, Kabua Morea, John Kariko
