PNG showed glimpses of brilliance when they took the field at the Harare Cricket Ground against Zimbabwe in their maiden ODI outing.

With this match, PNG joined the ranks as the 21st team to participate in official Women’s ODIs.

Since their international debut in September 2006, PNG have been on a journey marked by patience and perseverance.

They first entered the Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier from the East Asia-Pacific region in 2008 and 2011, but struggled to progress beyond the regional qualifiers.

However, a significant turning point arrived in May 2022 when PNG, along with four other associate members – Netherlands, Scotland, Thailand, and the USA, were granted ODI status by the ICC.

While still acclimatising to the demands of ODIs, the Lewas have been a formidable force in T20Is since attaining status in 2018.

With an impressive track record of 36 wins from 48 matches, they have emerged victorious in the Women's T20I Pacific Cup twice across two editions, cementing their status as a team to watch out for in the shorter format.

Though PNG were at the receiving end of a defeat in their first official ODI, they had a lot of positives to take from the opening game of the three-match series.

Captain Brenda Tau led by example with a solid 72 and was well supported by opening partner Naoani Vare. Tau almost carried her bat but was the penultimate wicket to fall as PNG posted 177 in 48 overs.

PNG then gave Zimbabwe an early scare with two wickets in the Powerplay but half-centuries from Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano and skipper Mary-Anne Musonda took the hosts to victory.

PNG will play two more ODIs on 26 and 28 March respectively before the three-match T20I series commences. on 30 March.