USA Women delivered a commanding performance to defeat Vanuatu Women by 53 runs in the eighth match of the ICC Women’s T20I Challenge Trophy 2026 at Gahanga Cricket Stadium in Kigali. The contest was largely one-sided, shaped by a dominant batting display and a controlled bowling effort. After posting 153/6, the USA bowlers ensured Vanuatu never gained a foothold, eventually dismissing them for exactly 100 on the final ball.
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, USA built their innings around an outstanding knock from Chetna Reddy Pagydyala. While wickets fell at regular intervals at the other end, she anchored the innings with authority, scoring 81 off 61 balls. Her innings included nine boundaries and two sixes, providing the foundation for a competitive total. She maintained control throughout, ensuring steady progress despite limited support.
The contributions from the rest of the batting lineup were modest but useful. Isani Vaghela added a quick 16 from 14 deliveries, while Gargi Bhogle chipped in with 11. Vanuatu’s bowlers tried to contain the scoring, with Vanessa Vira delivering an economical spell of 2/15 in four overs. Selina Solman (0/29 off 3) and Rachel Andrew (1/27 off 3) also put in efforts to restrict the flow, but Pagydyala’s innings ensured USA reached 153/6, boosted by late runs in the closing overs.
Early Strikes Leave Vanuatu Under Pressure
Vanuatu’s chase began poorly as they lost Rachel Andrew for a duck in the opening over, bowled by Maahi Madhavan. The early setback was followed by another quick wicket, with Nasimana Navaika dismissed soon after, leaving the side at 15/2. Valenta Langiatu attempted to counterattack, scoring 24 off 20 balls with three fours and a six, but her dismissal in the ninth over further dented the chase.
Solman Fights, But USA Bowlers Stay in Control
Captain Selina Solman offered resistance with a composed 40 off 40 balls, striking seven boundaries. Despite her efforts, Vanuatu struggled to build partnerships, as wickets continued to fall around her. Aditi Chudasama led the USA bowling attack with an impressive performance, claiming 4/15 in her four overs, including the key wicket of Solman, who was stumped by Pooja Ganesh.
As the required rate climbed, the pressure intensified on Vanuatu’s lower order. Sainavi Kambalapalli played a crucial role with the ball, taking 3/9 in her four overs, including a maiden, to further restrict the scoring. In the final over, Chudasama struck twice in consecutive deliveries to wrap up the innings, bowling Vanuatu out for 100.
The result marked a win for USA Women, reinforcing their strong form in the tournament.
