Italy Women held their composure in a tense run chase to edge past Vanuatu Women in a closely contested ICC Women’s T20I Challenge Trophy 2026 clash. A match-winning knock from Ilenia Sims proved decisive as Italy sealed victory with three balls to spare.
Vanuatu Build, But Fail to Capitalize
Vanuatu Women began steadily, with Rachel Andrew and Valenta Langiatu putting on 37 runs for the opening wicket. Andrew scored 14 before being run out, while Langiatu added 20 off 25 balls.
The innings was anchored by Nasimana Navaika, who compiled a determined 36 off 39 deliveries. She shared a 32-run stand with Selina Solman, but Italy’s bowlers kept striking at key moments to prevent any major acceleration.
Late contributions from Vanessa Vira (10*) and Alvina Chilia (5*) pushed Vanuatu to 114/6 in their 20 overs.
Italy’s bowling effort was disciplined, led by Chathurika Mahamalage (1/15), with support from Pasindi Kanankege and Kumudu Peddrick. Sharp fielding, including two run-outs, further restricted the scoring.
Early Collapse Puts Italy Under Pressure
Chasing 115, Italy stumbled early, losing Alexia Kontopirakis for a duck and Methnara Rathnayake cheaply, slipping to 8/2.
Vanessa Vira struck twice in the powerplay, putting Italy on the back foot and giving Vanuatu early control.
Sims Anchors the Chase with Match-Winning Knock
The game turned through a crucial 54-run partnership between Sims and skipper Emilia Bartram. Bartram contributed 16 before being run out, but Sims continued to anchor the innings with calm authority.
A middle-order wobble saw Italy slip from 62/3 to 79/5 after quick run-outs of Mahamalage and Emma Moore, bringing Vanuatu back into contention.
With 20 runs needed off the final 13 balls, pressure mounted. However, Sims remained composed, guiding the chase with smart shot selection and strike rotation.
Supported by Himanshi Daluwatta (6*), Sims finished unbeaten on 61 off 51 balls, steering Italy to 115/6 in 19.3 overs.
Vanuatu Fall Just Short
Despite a strong bowling effort, Vanuatu couldn’t defend the total. Vanessa Vira was the standout performer with 2/13 in 4 overs, while Andrew chipped in with a wicket.
However, the inability to break the Sims-Bartram partnership at a crucial stage proved costly.
Conclusion
A composed and mature innings from Ilenia Sims made the difference in a tightly contested encounter. Italy’s ability to absorb pressure and execute in the final overs ensured a hard-fought victory, while Vanuatu were left to rue missed opportunities at key moments.
