The Papua New Guinea Women’s team (PNG Lewas) have announced their international tour plans as they gear up for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier 2026. The team will tour Australia and Nepal in the coming weeks, with the Cricket PNG Board describing the tours as vital preparation ahead of the global event.
🏏 Australia Tour to Kick Off Preparations
The PNG Lewas will tour Australia from January 3 to January 9, where they will compete in the T20 segment of the Australian Country Championships. The exposure against strong domestic opposition is expected to help the team assess its strengths and address key areas before the qualifiers.
Cricket PNG Board chairman Michael Harrison highlighted the importance of the tour, stating:
“These tours are key to preparing our team for the T20 Qualifiers.”
🌏 Nepal Challenge Before Global Qualifiers
Following the Australia leg, the squad will travel to Nepal from January 11 to February 2 to compete in a highly competitive tournament featuring 10 teams. As per the tournament format, only the top four teams will qualify for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, making every match crucial for the Lewas.
With the Global Qualifiers fast approaching, the Nepal tour is expected to be a defining phase in PNG’s campaign.
🔥 Recent Dominance Boosts Confidence
The PNG Lewas recently showcased their growing strength at the PacificAus Sports Cricket Invitational 2025, where they remained unbeaten and lifted the title in dominant fashion. Their authority was reflected in their impressive net run rate, achieved after just four matches.
⭐ Standout Performers
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Isabel Toua emerged as the leading wicket-taker with 9 wickets in 4 innings, averaging an incredible 3.66, effectively claiming a wicket almost every third ball.
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Henao Thomas topped the batting charts for PNG, scoring 99 runs during the tournament.
The invitational tour also helped the team identify weaknesses, particularly in the batting department, as PNG continue refining their approach ahead of the qualifiers.
📝 Australia Tour Squad
Brenda Tau (C), Pauke Siaka, Naoani Vare, Henao Thomas, Hollan Doriga, Hane Lohia Tau, Geua Tom, Mairi Tom, Isabel Toua, Brenda Elly, Dika Lohia, Sibona Jimmy, Kevau Frank, Konio Oala, Miria Raio, Lesia Ray, Rollie Mahuru, Loa Ranu, Krystaleigh Alu, Abigail Leka
📝 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier Squad
Brenda Tau (C), Pauke Siaka, Naoani Vare, Henao Thomas, Hollen Doriga, Hane Lohia Tau, Geua Tom, Mairi Tom, Isabel Toua, Melanie Ani, Dika Lohia, Sibona Jimmy, Kevău Frank, Konio Oala, Miria Raio
📅 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifiers Schedule
Details to be announced.
