Japan defeat Samoa to set up clash with PNG

Captain Ema Kuribayashi carries bat in superb innings

Japan skipper and star opener Ema Kuribayashi played an outstanding innings on day 2 of the Pepsi ICC EAP Women,s Cricket Trophy 2010 to set up a 93-run victory for Japan.

Kuribayashi faced the first ball of the innings, and was left not-out on 78 from 158 balls at the compulsory closure after 50 overs.

The left-handed opener displayed a mixture of patience, class and excellent running between the wickets to help Japan post the match-winning total.

Former New Zealand representative Katrina Keenan also played a vital role in the middle order, showing outstanding discipline to contribute 21 from 69 balls, Japan finishing on 169-8.

In reply, Samoa began poorly, losing opener Tina Macumber in the very first over, before slumping to 28-6 in the 16th over.

The Japanese attack was relentless with its line and length, continually beating the outside edge, and coupled with a disciplined and enthusiastic fielding effort, was never in danger of losing the match.

Opener Kurumi Ota bowled accurately and with pace to grab two early wickets, while Katrina Keenan (2-10) and Kuribayashi also bowled well.

Japan and PNG will now play off on Day 3 for the chance to move through to the final, while the loser will play in the preliminary final on Day 4 against Samoa.