PNG claim dramatic win over UAE

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In a topsy-turvy encounter which provided box-office entertainment for the crowd in Amstelveen, PNG almost snatched defeat from the jaws of victory, only to prevail at the last.

They were chasing a target of 84, the same score they had made against Bangladesh the previous day when they were defeated by eight wickets to leave their hopes of qualification in the balance.

PNG were inspired in the field after UAE had won the toss and chosen to bat. A run out and sharp caught-and-bowled by Sibona Jimmy (2/11) accounted for the openers after a partnership of 28 and then the floodgates opened, UAE slipping to 45/7 in an extraordinary passage of play.

They were thankful for Subah Srinivasan's innings of 22 from 26 deliveries to take them to a score of some respectability but PNG were still strong favourites at the match's halfway point.

UAE are making their first appearance at this level but they showed in their nail-biting victory over the Netherlands which opened their campaign that they have great spirit and skill in their ranks.

Those fighting qualities were on display once again as they clawed their way back after PNG reached 50/2 and were seemingly strolling to victory.

Srinivasan (3/13) was to the fore once again, claiming three wickets in quick succession to reduce PNG to 76/7 with two overs left.

When Ravina Oa was run out going for the winning run with two balls remaining a tied match became a real possibility, but Naoani Vare (5*) held her nerve to seal the victory in dramatic circumstances.

PNG's win keeps the group wide open with all four countries in Group A still in the mix for qualification to the semi-finals heading into the final round of games on Tuesday.