Cricket resumes in Vanuatu as Langiatu, Vellani power Mele Bulls to Super League title

Mele Bulls kept up the reputation as they defeated Power House Sharks by seven wickets in a lop-sided final, thanks to Valenta Langiatu’s half-century and Maloni Vatoko’s devastating spell, to clinch the Vanuatu Women’s T20 Super League on Saturday (April 25) at a time when the whole world is under lockdown due to coronavirus.

Vanuatu also became the first nation to resume live cricket after the situation had been brought under control, enough to allow for the resumption of cricket – which was live-streamed on Facebook. The day began with Power House Sharks thrashing Tafea Blackbirds by 10 wickets in the semi-final to set up a summit clash with Mele Bulls, who were unbeaten throughout the tournament.

Chasing 80 runs to win the title, the Bulls never looked in discomfort with Langiatu's 51 off 36 balls guiding them over the line in just 10.2 overs at Korman Stadium in Port Vila. Her innings was studded with three huge sixes and the same number of fours. Maeva Vira was the most successful bowler for Sharks with figures of 2 for 13.

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Earlier, batting first, the Sharks had a decent start reaching 32 for the loss of one wicket in six overs. However, things took a drastic turn when Vatoko dismissed Joanan Kalwatman (18) and Merielle Kenni (20) in the ninth over as the Sharks slumped to 46 for 3 at the halfway stage. Jenny Napuat tried her best with a 27-ball 14 but failed to captalise as she was dismissed by Vicky Mansale.

Thereafter, the Sharks never really recovered from that shock as Vatoko ripped apart the opposition batting line-up single-handedly, to restrict them at 74 for 9 in 20 overs and emerged with figures of 6 for 10 in her four overs. Although Alvina Chilia has been brilliant with the ball for Bulls throughout the tournament with nine wickets from four games, she went wicket-less in the day. Mansale finished with two wickets for 12 runs.

Brief scores: Power House Sharks 74/9 in 20 overs (Merielle Kenni 20; Maloni Vatoko 6/10) lost to Mele Bulls 75/3 in 10.2 overs (Valenta Langiatu 51; Maeva Vira 2/13) by seven wickets.