Papua New Guinea vs Cook Islands - 9th Match, ICC Men's T20 World Cup East Asia Pacific Qualifier 2026

Date: May 10, 2026
Venue: Korogi Sports Park, Nisshin

Papua New Guinea triumphed over Cook Islands by a margin of 49 runs in a high-scoring encounter. Tony Ura and Lega Siaka were the stars with the bat for Papua New Guinea, while Cory Dickson put up a commendable effort with the ball for Cook Islands.

Match Summary

Papua New Guinea, having won the toss, opted to bat first and set an imposing target of 204 runs for Cook Islands. The batting innings was highlighted by explosive performances from Tony Ura, who scored a rapid 74 off just 33 balls, and Lega Siaka, who remained unbeaten with a solid 80 off 50 deliveries. Their innings featured a flurry of boundaries with Ura hitting 5 fours and 6 sixes, and Siaka contributing with 4 fours and 4 sixes. The opening partnership laid a strong foundation for Papua New Guinea's total.

In response, Cook Islands managed to score 155/6 in their allotted 20 overs. Hayden Dickson was the standout performer with the bat, scoring an impressive 50 off 32 balls, which included 6 fours and 3 sixes. However, his efforts were not enough to chase down the mammoth target set by Papua New Guinea.

Key Performances

• Papua New Guinea Batting:

  • Tony Ura: Scored a blistering 74 runs from 33 balls at a strike rate of 224.24.
  • Lega Siaka: Remained not out on 80 runs from 50 balls with a strike rate of 160.

• Cook Islands Batting:

  • Hayden Dickson: Top-scored with a quickfire half-century (50 off 32 balls).

• Bowling Highlights:

  • Cory Dickson (Cook Islands): Took two crucial wickets for 29 runs in his spell of four overs.

The match was marked by some crucial dismissals and sharp fielding. Notably, Cory Dickson dismissed both Tony Ura and Assad Vala through catches taken by Jared Tutty and Luca Grace respectively. The bowling attack from Papua New Guinea was effective in containing the Cook Islands’ batsmen, ultimately leading to their victory.

Overall, it was an entertaining match that showcased aggressive batting and tactical bowling strategies from both teams. Papua New Guinea’s victory strengthens their position in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup East Asia Pacific Qualifier.